In 2023, there were 378 police officers shot in the line of duty, resulting in 46 officers losing their lives, according to the National Fraternal Order of Police. These are the tragic stories of eight officers who were killed while on duty last year. Sgt. Michael Moran of the Cortez Police Department in Colorado was shot during a traffic stop in November. He served in the Marines for nine years before joining the police force in 2012. Indiana State Trooper Aaron Smith died after being struck by a suspect driving a stolen vehicle. Master Trooper James Bailey was also hit by a suspect’s vehicle a few months later. Officer Andres Vasquez-Lasso of the Chicago Police Department was killed while chasing an armed teenage suspect who opened fire on him at close range.
In Texas, Lt. Milton Resendez was shot while pursuing two individuals who were driving through several cities along the southern border. He was struck in the abdomen by a bullet and pronounced dead at a local hospital. Sgt. Michael Abbate and Trooper Alberto Felix of Nevada were killed by a drunk driver on a Las Vegas freeway while checking on a driver who appeared to be sleeping in his car. West Virginia State Police Sgt. Cory Maynard was shot and killed after responding to a complaint about a shooting. Alabama officer Garrett Crumby was killed while responding to a domestic violence call. Another officer, Albert Morin, was injured in the incident.
Superintendent Doug Carter of the Indiana State Police described Trooper Smith as a shining star and a standout member of the force. Master Trooper Bailey was also remembered by the superintendent as a dedicated officer. Chicago Police Superintendent David O. Brown said that Officer Vasquez-Lasso had a very bright future ahead of him and came from a family of public servants. Chief Mario Pera of the San Benito Police Department in Texas spoke of Lt. Resendez’s dedication and bravery in pursuing dangerous suspects along the southern border. The tragic deaths of these officers are a reminder of the risks and dangers that law enforcement officers face on a daily basis.
The suspects responsible for the deaths of these officers were apprehended and charged with various offenses, including murder, aggravated assault, and evading arrest. The families, friends, and colleagues of the fallen officers were left to mourn their loss and remember the sacrifices made by these brave men and women. Despite the dangers they face, law enforcement officers continue to serve and protect their communities, facing unknown risks with courage and dedication. The deaths of these officers serve as a reminder of the challenges and dangers that law enforcement officers face in the line of duty, and the bravery and sacrifice they demonstrate in their commitment to protecting and serving their communities.
