Greenville police officer shot and killed in 'ambush' attack, police say

Greenville, TX - A Greenville police officer was shot and killed while chasing a wanted felon Monday night.

According to the Greenville Police Department, Officer Cooper Dawson pulled over a man wanted on several felony warrants just before 8 p.m. in the 3500 block of Picket Street.

The suspect then took off running, and Officer Dawson chased him.

Police said while the officer was in a wooded area behind homes, the suspect ambushed him and shot him multiple times.

Officer Cooper Dawson

"Despite his critical injuries, Officer Dawson displayed exceptional courage, returning fire, and striking the suspect," Greenville police said in a statement.

Police confirmed that both the officer and the suspect were taken to the hospital. 

Officer Dawson was shot in the leg and on his side. He was airlifted to Medical City Plano but passed away Tuesday morning.

"Despite being wounded, he applied his own tourniquet. He was passionate about tactical medicine. He walked responding officers through treatment in a very calm manner,"said Greenville Police Chief Chris Smith "That is the epitome of what a heroic officer he is. I’m very proud of him, and he will be missed."

Late Tuesday night, police identified the suspect as 25-year-old Christian Sparger. He remains at a Hunt County hospital in critical condition.

Sparger has a lengthy criminal history, including charges of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, family violence and possession of drugs. 

Remembering Officer Dawson

Officer Dawson is being remembered as a valued public servant, father and husband. He was also a proud military veteran.

Greenville police said the 27-year-old officer was a highly respected member of the department. He also previously worked for the Garland Police Department.

Tuesday evening, people in Royse City wrapped their arms around Dawson’s widow, Aubrey, who works at Royse City ISD. Hugs of comfort and sorrow came from friends, community members, and colleagues. 

Aubrey and Dawson have 3 young kids.

"Hundreds and hundreds of people who assembled on a short notice just to show you love for you. That will continue in the coming days," said Royse City ISD Superintendent Amy Anderson.

"The grief we feel is indescribable," Chief Smith said. "We ask that you join us in praying for his family and supporting them in their difficult time."

All day Tuesday, people stopped by the Greenville Police Department to drop off flowers and pay their respects. Many embraced as the parked patrol car became covered with bouquets of flowers.

"It's devastating. My heart goes out to the families and the Greenville Police Department and everybody involved. The street is real quiet most of the time. Nothing really happens and boom. Stuff like this is just kind of hard," said Tyler Sten, a Greenville resident.

"It's just really sad to experience it in your hometown. We're just big supporters. I feel like it's important for him to also just understand the importance of just showing up and showing support," said Jackeline Gamez, another resident. 

"We lost a good man today. He was an excellent officer," Chief Smith said. "He came in under my command, and this one hits really hard."

This is the first line-of-duty death in Greenville in more than 100 years.

Funeral arrangements are pending.