A 24-year-old police officer, Jeremy Labonte, has been killed in the line of duty in Roswell, Georgia, according to authorities. An arrest has been made in the shooting, the Georgia Bureau of Investigation announced.
“The Roswell Police Department is heartbroken to announce the loss of Officer Jeremy Labonte, 24, who was killed in the line of duty on the evening of February 7, 2025,” police said in a statement shared on Facebook over the weekend.
The social media post included five photos, with one of Labonte on his wedding day. Another image showed him wearing his uniform, while a third showed him reading to a group of children.
“Officer Labonte faithfully and joyfully served the Roswell community as a member of the nightshift patrol alongside his D-Squad brothers and sisters,” police wrote, noting he joined the fdepartment in 2021. “He was universally beloved by all who were blessed to know him as a friend, a husband, a son and a public servant. His absence now leaves a void that could never be filled.”
The Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI) said a suspect, Edward Espinoza, 23, was arrested on the following charges:
- Malice murder
- Felony murder
- Aggravated assault on a peace officer
- Possession of a knife or firearm during the commission of a felony
Fulton County Jail records show Espinoza was previously arrested in 2024 for simple battery and criminal trespass He was also charged with being drunk in public.
In 2022, Espinoza was booked on criminal trespassing charges, as well as reckless conduct in 2021.
The GBI said Labonte responded to a report of a suspicious person Friday around 7:15 p.m. When he arrived, he found Espinoza in the parking lot near the ACE Pickleball Club.
“As the officer approached Espinoza for questioning, Espinoza pulled a handgun and fired multiple shots at the officer,” the GBI said.
“Witnesses immediately called 911, and responding officers quickly took Espinoza into custody. The injured officer was taken to a local hospital but later died,” the GBI added, also noting that “once the investigation is complete, the case file will be given to the Fulton County District Attorney’s Office for prosecution.”
To honor Labonte, police said a memorial vehicle was placed outside Roswell Police Department headquarters, where the public was invited to pay their respects and leave tributes. Images showed the SUV adorned with bouquets of flowers and other mementos.
“In less than 24 hours, it is already overflowing with expressions of love — tangible reminders of the deep honor and gratitude this community holds for Officer Labonte’s legacy. We are moved beyond words by this continued outpouring of support.”
In partnership with the Labonte family, the Roswell Police Department and the Friends of Roswell Police created a fund to collect donations.
“This is the only authorized donation platform for the Labonte family,” police said. “Please feel free and encouraged to share it with anyone who may feel moved to support them financially through this tragedy.
The department also thanked agencies and communities throughout the U.S. for their support.
“Though there are too many to name, we are profoundly grateful for every expression of kindness and solidarity during this difficult time,” police said.
Police said Labonte’s family is planning his funeral services. More information will be released in the next few days.
“Our priority now is to surround and support the family of our fallen officer and grieving department,” police said. “We ask that your hearts and your prayers stand with us in doing the same.”
The GBI said Labonte’s death remains under investigation and urged anyone who has information about the shooting to contact authorities.
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