ATLANTA (WANF/Gray News) – A Georgia police officer was shot and killed in the line of duty just days before going on vacation with his family.
According to the Roswell Police Department, 24-year-old Jeremy Labonte was shot and killed while responding to a “suspicious person” call at a shopping center late Friday night.
An officer found the suspect, identified as 23-year-old Edward Espinoza, in the parking lot near the ACE Pickleball Club.
According to police, Espinoza shot Labonte multiple times.
Labonte was taken to the hospital, where he later died.
Espinoza was immediately taken into custody.
He faces charges of murder, aggravated assault against a law enforcement officer and a weapons charge.
In honor of the fallen officer, the police department has lowered its flags to half-staff at its law enforcement center. The department has invited the public to leave tributes in Labonte’s honor.
The shooting prompted an outpouring of condolences from officials and other law enforcement departments.
“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,” Gov. Brian Kemp said in a statement. “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.”
He leaves behind a wife and a son.
Labonte’s wife told Atlanta News First that he was killed four days before going on vacation. She also said the pair met in middle school and had been married for three years.
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