Tragedy struck in Texas as a police officer was shot and killed while performing his duty to arrest a fugitive. The officer, Elijah Garretson, hailed from New Hampshire and served with the Copperas Cove Police Department. His life was taken during an attempt to bring a suspect to justice, authorities reported.

The incident unfolded as Officer Garretson, along with two fellow officers, confronted 26-year-old Jamison Cavazos. Cavazos was wanted for engaging in organized criminal activity and had failed to appear in court on January 10. According to Texas State Senator Pete Flores, whose district covers Copperas Cove, a confrontation ensued as the officers tried to apprehend Cavazos.

During the intense altercation, Cavazos reportedly opened fire, fatally wounding Officer Garretson. The suspect then managed to escape the initial scene. However, as law enforcement closed in on his second location after lengthy negotiations, Cavazos took his own life with a gunshot. Authorities discovered two firearms in his possession, according to Senator Flores.

Officer Garretson was quickly transported to a hospital for medical attention, but he, unfortunately, succumbed to his injuries. His untimely death serves as a somber reminder of the dangers law enforcement officers face daily in their commitment to public safety.

Officer Elijah Garretson was gunned down in the line of duty while attempting to arrest a fugitive who was wanted for engaging in organized criminal activity and failing to appear in court on Jan. 10. (The Copperas Cove Police Department)

Garretson was subsequently transported to a hospital, where he later died from his injuries. 

“This officer placed his life in harm’s way trying to protect public safety and paid the ultimate price,” Flores, chairman of the Texas Senate Committee on Criminal Justice, said. “This loss is a tragic reminder of the courageous sacrifice that our law enforcement officers face every day.”

The Texas Rangers are conducting an investigation into Garretson’s death.

The body of fallen police officer Elijah Garretson is escorted to the Crawford Bowers Funeral Home in Killeen, Texas on Jan. 13, 2026. (FOX 7)

Garretson grew up in New Hampshire and later joined the U.S. Army, where he was stationed in Fort Hood and rose to the rank of Sergeant before leaving in June 2024, FOX 7 reported.

Following his departure from the Army, Garretson entered the police academy and graduated as the Academic Honor Graduate of his class in June 2025. He was also celebrated for helping to save a fellow cadet’s life when they experienced cardiac arrest, according to FOX 7.

Mourners attend the funeral of fallen police officer Elijah Garretson at the Crawford Bowers Funeral Home in Killeen, Texas, on Jan. 13, 2026.  (FOX 7)

He reportedly leaves behind a wife and 5-year-old daughter. 

The Copperas Cove Police Department did not immediately respond to Fox News Digital’s request for comment. 

“During this difficult time, our thoughts are with his loved ones, colleagues at the Copperas Cove Police Department, and all those affected by this tragedy,” the New Hampshire State Police said in a Facebook post. “He will never be forgotten.”