A Dallas police officer, identified as Darron Burks, was killed, and two other officers were wounded late Thursday night, August 29, 2024, during a vehicle pursuit that ended in a shootout north of the city. The suspect was shot and killed by police after fleeing the scene of the initial shooting.
The incident began shortly after 10 p.m. on East Ledbetter Drive in Dallas, Texas, when officers responded to a call for assistance. Upon arrival, they found Officer Burks critically injured inside his squad car. He was transported to a local hospital but succumbed to his injuries shortly thereafter.
Dallas Police Chief Eddie Garcia stated that the suspect intentionally targeted the officers in what has been characterized as a pre-meditated attack, describing the incident as an execution-style shooting.
After shooting Burks, the suspect, identified as Corey Cobb-Bey, 30, from Dallas, fled north along Interstate 35, leading officers on a high-speed chase toward Lewisville, Texas. The pursuit ended when Cobb-Bey exited his vehicle with a long gun and opened fire on the officers. Police returned fire, killing him at the scene.
Two other officers injured in the exchange were transported to area hospitals. One remains in critical condition, while the other is stable. Their identities have not been released.
Dallas Mayor Eric Johnson expressed that Dallas has lost a hero and that the city grieves with the officer’s family. He emphasized the hope for a full and swift recovery for the two wounded officers. He highlighted the importance of public safety in Dallas and the dedication of police officers who face dangerous situations to ensure the community’s safety.
Mayor Johnson stated that the attack on these officers is an attack on the city, its families, and its way of life. He urged the community to continue efforts to stop violence, remember the officers’ sacrifices, and come together in mourning.
In solidarity, the Dallas Police Department has ordered flags at all city facilities to be flown at half-staff. The department also vowed to conduct a thorough investigation into the events leading up to the fatal confrontation.
The suspect’s motive remains under investigation, with authorities reviewing dashcam and body camera footage to piece together the incident. The department has not disclosed whether Cobb-Bey had a prior criminal history or ties to ongoing investigations.
Law enforcement agencies throughout Texas have conveyed their condolences. The Fort Worth Police Department shared a message expressing support for the Dallas Police Department during this challenging time, stating they mourn the officer’s death and hope for the recovery of those who were injured.
Officer Burks’ death marks the first line-of-duty fatality for the Dallas Police Department this year.