A suspect was shot and killed by police following a pursuit, according to authorities. The incident, which occurred Thursday night, involved the shooting of a police officer while he was in his squad car, described by the Dallas Chief of Police as an “execution.”
Two additional officers were injured as they responded to the scene, ultimately leading to the suspect being shot dead by police. Dallas Chief of Police Edgardo Garcia stated in a press conference that the officers were targeted simply for wearing their uniforms and performing their duties.
Officer Darron Burks was in his squad car around 10:04 p.m. CT on Thursday in a community center parking lot when the suspect, 30-year-old Corey Cobb-Bey, approached him. After a brief conversation recorded on the suspect’s cellphone, Cobb-Bey pulled out a handgun and shot Burks while he was still seated in his vehicle, according to Garcia.
A dispatcher noticed a strange radio transmission and sent backup to check on Burks. In the meantime, Cobb-Bey retrieved a shotgun from his vehicle, which was parked just moments before.
When Senior Corporal Jamie Farmer arrived at around 10:11 p.m. CT, Cobb-Bey fired at him immediately. Farmer returned fire and sought cover while Cobb-Bey retrieved the shotgun from Officer Burks’ car and shot Farmer, injuring him.
Senior Corporal Karissa David arrived shortly after and positioned her vehicle at the parking lot entrance, but Cobb-Bey shot at her multiple times as she got out, hitting her in the face.
A police sergeant directed pursuing officers to track Cobb-Bey as he fled the scene. The chase led to Interstate 35E, where Cobb-Bey eventually stopped and exited his vehicle with the shotgun aimed at the officers. In response, six officers opened fire, striking him multiple times; he died at the scene. Authorities recovered both a .22 caliber handgun and a 9mm handgun from the suspect.
Officer Burks was pronounced dead at the hospital, while the other two injured officers were taken to local hospitals for treatment. Officer David is in critical but stable condition, while Farmer, who sustained a leg injury, has since been released.
Chief Garcia noted that Cobb-Bey legally purchased the firearms used in the incident and indicated that there was no prior acquaintance between him and Officer Burks. Investigators found that Cobb-Bey had recently recorded himself approaching an unmarked squad car and questioning the officers inside.
Cobb-Bey had shown signs of personal and professional distress online and made a cryptic post the day of the attack. The chief condemned the incident as a “senseless, evil act,” asserting that it appeared to be premeditated targeting law enforcement due to the uniforms they wear.
Garcia also indicated that evidence suggests Cobb-Bey may have been affiliated with the Moorish Sovereign Citizens movement, known for its anti-government sentiments. The police department is investigating the suspect’s social media accounts for further insights.
Dallas Mayor Eric Johnson addressed the situation, calling it “devastating,” and praised Officer Burks as a “hero.” He emphasized the need to combat violence in the community and pay tribute to the sacrifices made by law enforcement.