BOX ELDER COUNTY — Community officials spoke on Tuesday afternoon about the loss of Sergeant Lee Sorensen and Officer Eric Estrada, who were shot and killed while responding to a domestic disturbance late Sunday night.
During a Tuesday press conference, Tremonton Mayor Lyle Holmgren said his city is grieving the heartbreaking loss of two of their police officers. They also mourn the wounding of Box Elder Sheriff’s Deputy Mike Allred and his K-9, who are both recovering.
“Our hearts are broken, and our deepest love and prayers are with their families, friends, and fellow law enforcement officers,” said Mayor Holmgren. “These officers served our community with courage, dedication and their sacrifice will never be forgotten.”
The mayor emphasized their resolve to stand together, honoring the memories of the fallen, and work toward a safer future.
Chief Dustin Cordova, with the Tremonton-Garland Police Department, provided an initial comment on the shooting, and recounted his personal experience that night. He was at home when he got the alert that there was an active shooter event and noted that there was very little information available when he and other officers responded.
“We are living every cop’s worst nightmare,” stated Chief Cordova, “make no mistake of that.”
He emphasized that they were able to take control of the chaotic scene and were grateful for the immediate response from officers, neighboring agencies, and the community following the shooting.
“I can say, unequivocally, that Eric and Lee are heroes and I truly believe that more people would have died that night, had they not intervened,” Cordova said, fighting back emotions. “We will never forget. We will always remember and we will always honor you.”
Madison Peterson was acting as the spokesperson for Sergeant Sorensen’s family and passed on their gratitude to the community. She noted that the community will be honoring the fallen officers at the Box Elder County Fair.
Officer Estrada’s wife passed along a comment, which thanked the community for their support. She also asked for time and privacy for their family to grieve.
Box Elder Sheriff Kevin Potter said that both Deputy Allred and K-9 officer Azula are recovering well and that both were released from medical care. Deputy Allred also insisted on picking up Azula from the veterinary hospital himself.
“They are feeling pretty good,” said Sheriff Potter. “We were an inch away from having another dead officer. So, we’re very grateful for all of the support. I get calls from all the sheriffs I know, offering all the resources we need. We’re lucky and they are going to be okay.”
Reportedly, after being shot, Deputy Allred was still able to call in essential information and redirected incoming officers on how to approach the scene. Sheriff Potter said that Allred’s actions saved lives.
At this time, officials say they are not releasing any other information on the investigation.