A Greenville police officer who was shot in the line of duty on Monday night has died, police say.
According to the Greenville Police Department, Officer Cooper Dawson was killed in the line of duty on Nov. 25, 2024.
Police said the incident occurred when Dawson initiated a traffic stop which led to a foot pursuit in the 3500 block of Pickett Street shortly before 8 p.m.
While pursuing the suspect behind the address of 3517 Pickett Street, Dawson was ambushed and shot multiple times, police said.
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According to police, Dawson returned fire, striking the suspect, despite his own critical injuries.
Police said Dawson and the suspect were transported to Hunt County Regional Hospital. Dawson was later airlifted to Medical City Plano, where he succumbed to his injuries.
#BREAKING: Greenville police confirm an officer has been shot in the line of duty. A suspect was also shot during an exchange of gunfire just before 8pm. @NBCDFW
— Meredith Yeomans (@YeomansNBC5) November 26, 2024
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This incident marks the first Line of Duty death for the Greenville Police Department in over 100 years, police said.
"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."
Before service with the Greenville Police Department, Dawson previously served with the Garland Police Department.
Police officers from multiple departments gathered outside Medical City Plano in the hours following the incident.
Further details regarding memorial services and ways to support Officer Dawson's family will be announced in the coming days, police said.
