‘Displayed exceptional courage’: Officer shot in the line of duty dies

GREENVILLE, Texas (KLTV/Gray News) - A Texas police department announced the death of an officer who was initially hospitalized after a shooting Monday night.

According to the Greenville Police Department, Officer Cooper Dawson, who was injured while pursuing a suspect on Monday night, has died in the line of duty.

“We are heartbroken over the loss of Officer Cooper Dawson, who selflessly put his life on the line to serve and protect our community,” Greenville Police Chief Chris Smith noted. “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.”

At approximately 7:40 p.m., Dawson initiated a traffic stop that led to a foot pursuit in the 3500 block of Pickett Street.

While pursuing the suspect near Pickett Street, 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 stated.

Both Dawson and the suspect were transported to Hunt County Regional Hospital.

Dawson was later airlifted to Medical City Plano Hospital where he died from his injuries.

Dawson’s death marks the first in the line of duty for the Greenville Police Department in over 100 years.

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