GREENVILLE, Texas — Greenville police officer Cooper Dawson died Tuesday morning after he was shot while pursuing a suspect Monday night, the department confirmed.
Dawson was shot multiple times and returned fire. He succumbed to his injuries in the hospital, the condition of the suspect, later identified as 25-year-old Christian Robert Sparger, is unknown. A memorial is currently forming in front of the Greenville Police Department as of 9 a.m., the department said.
The fallen officer previously served with the Garland Police Department, Greenville police confirmed. Dawson's death marks the first on-duty death in the past 100 years for the Greenville Police Department, according to the department.
After Dawson's death was confirmed, local law enforcement reacted online, expressing their condolences to the Greenville Police Department and Dawson's family.
Garland Police posted a tribute to Dawson, describing him as "a devoted husband, father, and a loving family man," in a social media post. Dawson served with the Garland Police Department for seven years, according to the post.
"We pray for comfort for Cooper's family, friends, and those he knew, served with and loved," the post reads.
Texas Gov. Greg Abbott issued a statement on Facebook saying he and his wife were saddened by Dawson's death.
"Officer Dawson made the ultimate sacrifice while protecting his community in Greenville," Abbott wrote. "Please join us in prayer for his family, loved ones, & the Greenville Police Department during this devastating time."
Frisco police announced their badges would be banded in honor of Dawson Tuesday.
"Please keep his family, and all of our brothers and sisters with Greenville Police Department in your thoughts and prayers," Frisco police wrote in a social media post.
North Richland Hills publicly extended their condolences to Greenville Police and described Dawson's service to the Greenville community as "courageous," in a social media post.
"His bravery and dedication to protecting others will never be forgotten," the department wrote.
Royse City ISD hosted a prayer vigil for Officer Dawson on Tuesday night. His widow, Aubrey Dawson, is an elementary school teacher for the district. The principal of her school organized the vigil. During the event, Royse City ISD Superintendent Amy Anderson told Dawson "You are a part of two very powerful, very committed — that’s the community of law enforcement...and you are also a part of a big community of educators in this school district, county, and across this state."
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