A Greenville police officer died after he was shot during an exchange of fire Monday night, marking the first line-of-duty death the department has experienced in more than a century, officials said.
He was identified by the department as Cooper Dawson, 28. He previously worked at the Garland Police Department and is listed on the Texas Narcotics Officers Association as a training officer for the north region.
“His dedication to public service and his unwavering commitment to protecting the Greenville community will never be forgotten,” police officials wrote in a Tuesday morning news release.
About 7:40 p.m., Dawson pulled a vehicle over which turned into a foot chase in the 3500 block of Picket Street in the city about 50 miles northeast of Dallas in Hunt County.
While in pursuit, Dawson was “ambushed and shot multiple times,” police said.
“Despite his critical injuries, Officer Dawson displayed exceptional courage, returning fire, and striking the suspect,” police said in the release.
Both Dawson and the suspect, who has not been publicly named, were taken to local hospitals.
Dawson was later airlifted to Medical City Plano where he was pronounced dead, police said.
Police said the suspect was taken to the Hunt County Regional Hospital but did not provide a status on the person’s condition.
“We are heartbroken over the loss of Officer Cooper Dawson, who selflessly put his life on the line to serve and protect our community,” police Chief Chris Smith said. “We ask that you keep Office Dawson’s family, our department, and the Greenville community in your thoughts and prayers during this incredibly difficult time.”
The Garland Police Department also shared a post on Facebook saying the department prayed for comfort for Dawson’s loved ones.
“Cooper was more than just a Greenville Police Officer; he was a friend to many here at the Garland Police Department, a devoted husband, father, and a loving family man,” the post reads. “He wore the Garland PD badge with pride for seven years, dedicating himself to the safety and well-being of our community and Greenville PD.”
A news conference is scheduled for 4:30 p.m.
Details on services and ways to support Dawson’s family will be announced in the coming days.
