GREENVILLE, Texas — Editor's note: The video published above is a WFAA report on the shooting before it was announced the officer had died from his injuries. We will update the video when we are able to report the news on-air.
A Greenville police officer died after he was shot multiple times and returned fire, hitting a suspect, Greenville police confirmed.
Officer Cooper Dawson died Tuesday morning after he was shot while pursuing a suspect, according to an updated press release from the Greenville Police Department.
Around 7:40 p.m. Monday, Nov. 25 in the 3500 block of Pickett Street, Dawson initiated a traffic stop which led to an on-foot pursuit of the suspect, the department said. While chasing the suspect, Dawson was shot multiple times and returned fire despite his critical injuries, the release stated.
Both the officer and the suspect were taken to Hunt County Regional Hospital, according to the Greenville Police Department. Officer Dawson was later airlifted to Medical City Plano, where he succumbed to his injuries, the department said Tuesday morning.
Police did not release information about the condition or identity of the suspect.
"We are heartbroken over the loss of Officer Cooper Dawson, who selflessly put his life on the line to serve and protect our community," said Greenville Police Chief Chris Smith. "We ask that you keep Officer Dawson’s family, our department, and the Greenville community in your thoughts and prayers during this incredibly difficult time."
Dawson previously served with the Garland Police Department, the release stated.
Greenville PD said the Texas Department of Public Safety's Texas Rangers will investigate the shooting.
Dawson's death marks the first line of duty death for the Greenville Police Department in over 100 years, the release said.
Details regarding memorial services and ways to support Dawson's family will be announced in the coming days, according to police.
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