A suspect is in custody following the fatal shooting of a Georgia police officer at a local shopping center.
According to WSB-TV, a report stated that a young Roswell police officer named Jeremy Labonte, who was 24 years old, was called to investigate a suspicious person at a shopping center on Market Boulevard on Friday evening. When Labonte approached the individual, identified as 23-year-old Edward Espinoza, he unexpectedly drew a gun and opened fire, shooting repeatedly at Labonte, as confirmed by Roswell Police Chief Jim Conroy.
Despite being quickly taken to a nearby hospital, Labonte tragically did not survive his injuries. Chief Conroy expressed the devastating loss, stating, “One of our officers was shot and killed while serving the citizens of Roswell.”
Georgia Governor Brian Kemp offered his sympathies, mentioning that he and his family are keeping the officer’s loved ones in their thoughts and prayers. Additionally, he emphasized the importance of recognizing the significant sacrifices that law enforcement officers and their families endure to ensure the safety of the community.
“May this courageous man’s memory inspire all of us in the days, weeks, and years ahead,” he added, according to CBS News.
Espinoza has been arrested and charged with murder, aggravated assault on a law enforcement officer, and possessing a firearm during the commission of a felony.
[Feature Photo: Jeremy Labonte/Toswell PD]
