Two police officers were shot and killed in the line of duty near the Mexico border in Texas.
Officers Edelmiro Garza, 45, and Ismael Chavez, 39, with the McAllen Police Department in south Texas, died Saturday after they responded to a domestic disturbance call at a home and subsequently came under fire, according to ABC News.
“What I’m trying to tell you is the officers never had a chance to suspect a deadly assault on them,” McAllen Police Chief Victor Rodriguez said at a press conference.
The suspect, Aldon Caramillo, 23, died of a self-inflicted gunshot wound at the scene. He had a string of arrests before firing at the officers, including for driving under the influence, assault, and marijuana possession.
Police are still investigating the circumstances of the shooting, and dashcam footage reportedly didn’t capture the shooting on camera.
Our prayers and full support are with the valiant men and women of the #CityofMcAllen PD this evening.
This office will provide any assistance requested in the days ahead. We are grateful for police in McAllen and around this great state.
— Texas Attorney General (@TXAG) July 11, 2020
Today, 2 McAllen Police officers were killed in the line of duty. Our City extends its deepest condolences to McAllen PD & to the families of OFC Edelmiro Garza & OFC Ismael Chavez. McAllen is hurting & our hearts & prayers go out to them during this difficult time#McAllenStrong pic.twitter.com/SpwHe9yxii
— City of McAllen, TX (@CityofMcAllen) July 12, 2020
“Two of our finest were killed in the line of duty while working to protect residents in their community,“ Republican Texas Gov. Greg Abbott wrote on Twitter. “I’ve spoken with McAllen Police Chief Victor Rodriguez and offered the full support of the State of Texas. We unite to #BackTheBlue.”
Two of our finest were killed in the line of duty while working to protect residents in their community.
I’ve spoken with McAllen Police Chief Victor Rodriguez and offered the full support of the State of Texas.
We unite to #BackTheBlue.#RGVhttps://t.co/lm5DWQJSVC
— Greg Abbott (@GregAbbott_TX) July 11, 2020
“These are difficult moments,” Rodriguez said. “The officers came here to maintain peace. Instead, they were taken down by gunfire.”
“The next few days for us will be very, very difficult,” he added.
