The Tremonton Garland Police Department has identified two officers killed in the line of duty as Sergeant Lee Sorensen, 56, and Officer Eric Estrada, 31. They were fatally shot on August 17 while responding to a domestic disturbance. The suspect exited the residence and opened fire, striking both officers.
Sergeant Sorensen had 17 years of law enforcement experience, with 16 years at Garland Police. He was honored with a distinguished service award earlier this year and was scheduled to be sworn in as sergeant on August 22. He is survived by his wife and children.
Officer Estrada began his career in 2017 and had recently joined the Tremonton Police Department, where he was part of the Community Outreach team. He is survived by his wife and two children.
Processions to honor both officers were held on August 18, and community members were invited to show support. Utah Governor Spencer Cox ordered flags to fly at half-staff until the officers’ funerals. The incident also involved an unidentified Box Elder County sheriff’s deputy and his service dog, both of whom were injured but have since recovered.
The suspect, Ryan Michael Bate, has been arrested and faces multiple charges, including capital murder.
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