A Texas law enforcement officer, who was a husband and father of three, tragically lost his life in the line of duty in an ambush on Monday. Officer Cooper Dawson of the Greenville Police Department was conducting a routine traffic stop around 7:40 p.m. in Greenville, a city located approximately 75 minutes northeast of Dallas.
The loss of Officer Dawson has deeply affected the community. He was known for his selfless dedication to his duty, always willing to risk his life to ensure the safety and protection of the community he served. The suspect involved in the incident reportedly fled the scene of the traffic stop, leading to a foot chase initiated by Dawson.
Officer Dawson, aged 27, was ambushed and shot multiple times during the pursuit. Despite sustaining critical injuries, Dawson demonstrated remarkable bravery by returning fire and hitting the suspect. Following the incident, both Dawson and the suspect were immediately transported to Hunt County Regional Hospital.
Due to the severity of his injuries, Dawson was airlifted to Medical City Plano, where he later succumbed to his injuries. This tragic incident marks the first line-of-duty death within the Greenville Police Department in over a century.
The suspect has been identified as 25-year-old Christian Robert Sparger. According to Denton County court records, Sparger had a criminal history, having pleaded guilty to charges of aggravated assault and continuous violence in a separate case. He was also previously arrested for marijuana possession, public intoxication, and providing false information with the intent to misidentify himself as a fugitive.
Officer Dawson was a respected member of the Greenville Police Department and had previously served with the Garland Police Department. His commitment to public service and his unwavering dedication to protecting the Greenville community will be remembered. During his tenure with the Garland Police Department, which ended in 2023, Dawson received numerous accolades, including 10 certificates of merit, a dozen commendations, and two bars for saving lives.
Greenville Police Chief Chris Smith expressed his grief over the loss of Officer Dawson, describing him as a hero, a husband, a father, and a friend. The department and the community are mourning the loss of a good man and an excellent officer. In memory of Dawson, a squad car was displayed in front of the Greenville Police Department. A procession through the city streets was also held on Wednesday at 10:30 a.m. to pay tribute to Dawson.
Officer Dawson also served with the U.S. Army National Guard. Information regarding memorial services for Dawson’s family will be announced in the coming days, according to the police department.