A tragic shooting on Monday night claimed the life of Officer Cooper Dawson, a dedicated member of the Greenville Police Department, as he pursued a fleeing suspect on foot. The incident has left the community and his fellow officers mourning his loss.
The events unfolded shortly before 8 p.m. when Officer Dawson conducted a routine traffic stop in the 3500 block of Pickett Street. The suspect, whose identity has not yet been disclosed, fled the vehicle on foot, prompting Dawson to pursue. The chase led into a wooded area behind nearby homes, where the suspect ambushed the officer and opened fire.
Officer Dawson sustained critical gunshot wounds to his leg and side but managed to return fire, wounding the suspect in the exchange. Emergency responders quickly airlifted Dawson to Medical City Plano. Despite their efforts, he succumbed to his injuries shortly after arriving at the hospital.
“We are heartbroken over the loss of Officer Cooper Dawson, who selflessly put his life on the line to serve and protect our community,” said Greenville Police Chief Chris Smith. “Officer Dawson was not only an exceptional officer but also a respected and valued member of our department. His sacrifice will never be forgotten.”
Officer Dawson’s career in law enforcement included service with the Garland Police Department before he joined Greenville’s force. His death is the first line-of-duty fatality in Greenville in more than a century, underscoring the profound loss felt by his colleagues and the community.
The suspect involved in the shooting remains hospitalized, and authorities continue to investigate the incident. Funeral arrangements for Officer Dawson are pending, and support services are being offered to his family and fellow officers. The department has asked the public to keep Dawson’s loved ones in their thoughts during this time of grief and remembrance.