Two police officers, one from the Syracuse Police Department and another from the Onondaga County Sheriff's Department, were tragically killed in Salina, New York on April 14, 2024. The officers were responding to a report of a stolen vehicle when they encountered the suspect. According to reports, the officers attempted to stop the vehicle but lost sight of it. They later tracked down the vehicle and located it at a residence on Darien Drive in Salina.
Upon arrival at the scene, officers were met with gunfire from an armed suspect. Both officers and the suspect were shot during this exchange. The officers, identified as Syracuse Police Officer Michael Jensen and Onondaga County Sheriff's Deputy Lt. Michael Hoosock, were transported to Upstate University Hospital where they succumbed to their injuries.
The suspect was also killed during the incident. The names of the officers have been released, but the identity of the suspect is still pending.
The incident began when Syracuse police officers attempted to stop a suspicious vehicle in relation to a reported stolen vehicle. The driver refused to stop and instead fled from officers, leading them on a pursuit. Officers were able to obtain the license plate number and tracked down the suspect's residence on Darien Drive.
When officers arrived at the scene, they encountered an armed suspect who opened fire upon their arrival. Both officers returned fire, resulting in a shootout between the parties involved.
The community is in shock over this tragic loss of life. The families of both officers are grieving and being supported by their respective departments and law enforcement agencies.
This incident serves as a reminder of the dangers that law enforcement officers face every day in the line of duty. Our thoughts go out to the families, friends, and colleagues of these brave men who gave their lives in service to their community.
