ROSWELL, Ga. — Georgia police have identified the officer tragically killed in the line of duty on Friday night.
Our Atlanta station, WSB-TV, heard from Police Chief Jim Conroy of Roswell, located just north of Atlanta.
Conroy says Officer Jeremy Labonte, 24, was killed when he responded to a suspicious person call at a shopping center on Friday night.
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Labonte joined them on Nov. 1, 2021.
“Over the years that followed, Officer Labonte faithfully and joyfully served the Roswell community as a member of the nightshift patrol alongside his D-Squad brothers and sisters. He was universally beloved by all who were blessed to know him as a friend, a husband, a son, and a public servant. His absence now leaves a void that could never be filled,” the police department wrote.
The Georgia Bureau of Investigation has identified the man accused of shooting him as 23-year-old Edward Espinoza.
Conroy says as soon as Labonte approached Espinoza, the suspect pulled out a gun and shot the officer multiple times.
Labonte was rushed to the hospital where he died.
Espinoza is currently being held in the Fulton County Jail on charges of murder, aggravated assault and more.
Gov. Brian Kemp released a statement, saying:
“Marty, the girls, and I are praying for the loved ones of a Roswell Police Officer who was shot and killed in the line of duty. We join them, his fellow Roswell PD, and all law enforcement in mourning this sudden and heartbreaking loss, and we ask all Georgians to join us in keeping them in your thoughts and prayers. We also ask that we remain mindful of the heavy sacrifices law enforcement and their families make to keep all of us safe each and every day. May this courageous man’s memory inspire all of us in the days, weeks, and years ahead.”
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