Two police officers were killed over the weekend while responding to what authorities later confirmed was a domestic violence call in Tremonton, Utah.
The Tremonton Garland Police Department identified the fallen officers as Sergeant Lee Sorensen and Officer Eric Estrada. Both were fatally shot on Sunday, Aug. 17, after responding to a series of 911 hang-up calls.
How the Shooting Unfolded
According to police reports, the incident began when an officer arrived at the residence to speak with a resident about a possible domestic disturbance. While the officer was outside, the suspect allegedly came out of the home and opened fire, striking the officer.
A second Tremonton officer soon arrived on scene and was also immediately shot by the same suspect. Authorities have not clarified which officer arrived first.
A Box Elder County Sheriff’s deputy was also dispatched for backup. As he pulled up, the suspect reportedly fired multiple rounds into the deputy’s patrol vehicle, injuring both the deputy and his K-9 service dog. Both are recovering in fair condition at a hospital.
Suspect in Custody
The suspect, identified by multiple outlets including FOX 13, KJZZ, and KUTV as Ryan Michael Bate, was eventually convinced by bystanders to put down his weapon. He was taken into custody by additional responding officers without further violence.
He now faces multiple charges, including:
Capital aggravated murder
First-degree felony attempted aggravated murder
Misdemeanor assault
Court and attorney information for Bate has not yet been released.
Community Mourning Two Fallen Officers
The deaths of Sgt. Sorensen and Officer Estrada have left the Box Elder County law enforcement community in mourning. Both were remembered as dedicated public servants who put their lives on the line to protect others.
“This is a tragedy that has shaken our community to its core,” officials said in a statement.
What began as routine 911 follow-up calls turned into one of the most devastating incidents for law enforcement in Utah in recent years. As the investigation continues, the community is left grieving two officers who died in the line of duty while others focus on the recovery of the injured deputy and his K-9 partner.
