The quiet community of Tremonton, Utah, is mourning the devastating loss of two police officers—Sergeant Lee Sorensen and Officer Eric Estrada—who were fatally shot on Sunday night while responding to a domestic disturbance. The incident, which also left a sheriff’s deputy and his K-9 partner wounded, has left the small northern Utah town reeling in grief.
The tragedy unfolded shortly after 9 p.m. when officers from the Tremonton Garland Police Department responded to a home in the city. Authorities reported that while one officer was speaking with an individual at the residence, a man suddenly emerged and opened fire. Sergeant Sorensen was struck and killed instantly. The gunman then turned his weapon on Officer Estrada, fatally shooting him as well.
A Box Elder County Sheriff’s deputy who also responded to the call came under fire as the suspect shot multiple rounds into his vehicle, injuring both the deputy and his police dog. Thankfully, officials confirmed that both are in fair condition and expected to recover.
The gunman was later identified as 32-year-old Ryan M. Bate, a resident of the home. Authorities said bystanders intervened during the chaos, persuading Bate to surrender and put down his weapon. He has since been booked into Weber County Jail on charges of aggravated murder and is being held without bail. Court records reveal that a woman in the household previously filed for a protective order against Bate in 2019.
The officers killed were pillars of the community. Sergeant Sorensen, 56, served with the Tremonton Garland Police Department for 16 years and had recently been promoted to his leadership role. Known for his dedication and kindness, Sorensen shared his passion for service with his wife, who alongside him was honored for their positive contributions to nearby Garland. He leaves behind his wife and children, who are now grieving the sudden loss of a husband and father.
Officer Estrada, 31, had spent approximately eight years in law enforcement. Colleagues remember him as hardworking, compassionate, and deeply committed to protecting his community. He, too, was a devoted husband and father whose death leaves a young family behind. Utah Governor Spencer Cox has ordered flags across the state to be flown at half-staff in their memory.
Mayor Lyle Holmgren described the shooting as a shock that reverberated through the entire city of 13,000. “We’re a tight-knit community,” he said. “It was just a regular Sunday until it wasn’t.” His words echoed the sense of disbelief and grief felt by residents who are more accustomed to quiet evenings than the sound of gunfire and helicopters.
Neighbor Jerrie Heath, who lives just a few houses from the crime scene, recalled the terrifying moment the shots rang out. “Within seconds, our whole block was shut down,” she said, describing how her family quickly locked their doors and sheltered inside.
The tragedy has cast a somber shadow over Box Elder County, which is currently celebrating the 100th anniversary of its county fair. Mayor Holmgren noted that the community’s focus has shifted: “This sort of changed our perspective a little bit, from celebration to more respect and concern for those officers who we have lost.”
As Tremonton and the wider Utah law enforcement community grieve, tributes continue to pour in for Sgt. Sorensen and Officer Estrada—two men remembered for their service, sacrifice, and devotion to both their families and their community.
