By MES Dispatch staff
The Briefing
- • Copperas Cove Police Officer Elijah Garretson, 27, was shot and killed by a suspect during an officer-involved incident in Copperas Cove, Texas, the Texas Rangers are investigating.
- • The suspect later died by suicide after an extended standoff with law enforcement, authorities said.
- • Garretson had joined the department in June 2025 and was recognized for academic performance and medical aid during training, the department said.
- • Local law enforcement agencies shared condolences following the line-of-duty death.
- • Officials have released limited information as the investigation continues.
COPPERAS COVE, TX — A Copperas Cove Police officer was shot and killed by a suspect who later died by suicide following a prolonged standoff, the Texas Department of Public Safety confirmed Tuesday.
Officer Elijah Garretson, 27, joined the Copperas Cove Police Department in June 2025 and earned the Academic Award for graduating with the highest grade-point average in his academy class, department officials said. During his academy training, he was also recognized for rendering aid to a fellow cadet during a medical emergency.
Texas Department of Public Safety Sgt. Bryan Washko said details about what led to the shooting have not been released as the Texas Rangers continue their investigation. The suspect died by suicide following negotiations with law enforcement.
Garretson’s loss was acknowledged in a department statement requesting privacy for his family and colleagues as they grieve. Law enforcement agencies across Central Texas, including the Killeen, Waco and Lampasas police departments, shared condolences on social media in the wake of his death.
No further information has been released as investigators with the Texas Rangers search for additional details surrounding the incident.