Two Texas cops ambushed; suspect dead

Photo intentionally blurred

McAllen, Texas -- Two police officers Edelmiro Gara, 45, and Ismael Chavez, 39, were ambushed while responding to a domestic disturbance complaint Saturday. 

The gunman, whose name will not be used here, later killed himself after engaging in a shootout with other responding officers, The Monitor of McAllen, Texas, reported.

“We have lost two brave public servants who sought only to keep peace in our City,” McAllen police Chief Victor Rodriguez said via text message Saturday, according to the newspaper.

Gov. Gregg Abbott addressed the incident on Twitter Saturday night.

"Two of our finest were killed in the line of duty while working to protect residents in their community," Abbott posted. "I've spoken with McAllen Police Chief Victor Rodriguez and offered the full support of the State of Texas. We unite to #BackTheBlue."

The suspect was a 23-year-old Hispanic man who was most recently arrested last month on assault charges, as reported by The Monitor.

Lt. Christopher Olivarez, a spokesman for the state Department of Public Safety, said the two officers were transported to an area hospital after the shooting.

The Texas Attorney General's office addressed the killings on Twitter and offered prayers and assistance to the people and police officers of McAllen.

"Our prayers and full support are with the valiant men and women of the #CityofMcAllen PD this evening," the message read. "This office will provide any assistance requested in the days ahead. We are grateful for police in McAllen and around this great state."

The city's government Facebook page had a message of condolence for Garza and Chavez's fellow officers and their families.

"Today, two McAllen Police officers were killed in the line of duty," the post stated. "The City of McAllen extends its deepest condolences to the McAllen Police Department and to the families of Officer Edelmiro Garza and Officer Ismael Chavez. Our City is hurting and our hearts and prayers go out to them during this difficult time."

#BackTheBlue

Please consider following this blog, and remember, every time you click on an ad, an angel gets its wings and a dead terrorist gets his virgins.

Tweet