Authorities say the DeKalb County Police Officer killed during a traffic stop Thursday was a 25-year-old who joined the force last year.
The department has identified the officer as Edgar Isidro Flores. He graduated from the police academy in November 2017 and was hired by DeKalb police in May 2017.
Police say Officer Flores pulled over a car on a busy road near Atlanta and the driver ran from the traffic stop.
When the officer pursued him, investigators say the suspect drew a handgun and shot Flores.
He later died at a local hospital.
Other officers later found the suspect hiding in a pile of tires behind a business.
Officials say the suspect also shot a K9. Officers and SWAT on the scene returned fire, reportedly shooting the suspect several times.
The suspect, later identified as 33-year-old Brandon Taylor, of Decatur, died at a nearby hospital.
The K9 officer, Indi, is in stable condition after receiving treatment for critical gunshot injuries.
Indi is 7-years-old and has 5 years of service.
Law enforcement agencies and state leaders are sending their condolences to the DeKalb County community as they grieve the loss of Officer Flores:
I’m saddened to learn that a @DeKalbCountyPD officer was killed in the line of duty yesterday. @GAFirstLady and I join the officer’s loved ones and the DeKalb County community in grieving this tragic and senseless loss.— Governor Nathan Deal (@GovernorDeal) December 14, 2018
The DeKalb police officer shot earlier today has died. We are forever grateful for his service and sacrifice. Our prayers are with those who mourn. https://t.co/5kCPsxDici— Brian Kemp (@BrianKempGA) December 14, 2018
Our hearts are with the family, blood & blue, of the DeKalb County Police Officer who paid the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty tonight. We thank you for your service and pray for the DeKalb County Police Department. 🖤💙🖤 #LODD pic.twitter.com/4wvlCmwPpr— GA Bureau of Invest (@GBI_GA) December 14, 2018
Our thoughts and prayers are with the family, friends and colleagues of the fallen DeKalb County police officer Edgar Flores. pic.twitter.com/Bq7Oz0VOfg— U.S. Secret Service (@SecretService) December 14, 2018
The Georgia Bureau of Investigation will be conducting an independent investigation. Upon completion, they will turn it over to the DeKalb County District Attorney’s Office for review.
