A Texas police officer lost his life while on duty as he attempted to capture a fugitive, law enforcement officials reported.

Copperas Cove Police Officer Elijah Garretson, originally from New Hampshire and just 27 years old, was fatally shot while trying to arrest a fugitive sought for involvement in organized crime and for missing a court appearance on January 10. This information was shared by Texas State Senator Pete Flores, whose district covers Copperas Cove, in a social media update.

Senator Flores detailed that Officer Garretson, along with two fellow officers, confronted the suspect, identified as 26-year-old Jamison Cavazos. A struggle ensued during their attempt to detain him.

Authorities confirmed that during the confrontation, Cavazos shot Officer Garretson and then fled the scene. Subsequently, Cavazos died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound as law enforcement officials closed in on his location after extensive negotiation efforts. Two firearms were found in his possession, according to Flores.

Officer Elijah Garretson was tragically killed in the line of duty, a victim of gunfire during an attempt to apprehend a wanted fugitive. The fugitive was sought for organized criminal activities and failure to attend a court hearing on January 10, as stated by the Copperas Cove Police Department.

Garretson was subsequently transported to a hospital, where he later died from his injuries. 

“This officer placed his life in harm’s way trying to protect public safety and paid the ultimate price,” Flores, chairman of the Texas Senate Committee on Criminal Justice, said. “This loss is a tragic reminder of the courageous sacrifice that our law enforcement officers face every day.”

The Texas Rangers are conducting an investigation into Garretson’s death.

The body of fallen police officer Elijah Garretson is escorted to the Crawford Bowers Funeral Home in Killeen, Texas on Jan. 13, 2026. (FOX 7)

Garretson grew up in New Hampshire and later joined the U.S. Army, where he was stationed in Fort Hood and rose to the rank of Sergeant before leaving in June 2024, FOX 7 reported.

Following his departure from the Army, Garretson entered the police academy and graduated as the Academic Honor Graduate of his class in June 2025. He was also celebrated for helping to save a fellow cadet’s life when they experienced cardiac arrest, according to FOX 7.

Mourners attend the funeral of fallen police officer Elijah Garretson at the Crawford Bowers Funeral Home in Killeen, Texas, on Jan. 13, 2026.  (FOX 7)

He reportedly leaves behind a wife and 5-year-old daughter. 

The Copperas Cove Police Department did not immediately respond to Fox News Digital’s request for comment. 

“During this difficult time, our thoughts are with his loved ones, colleagues at the Copperas Cove Police Department, and all those affected by this tragedy,” the New Hampshire State Police said in a Facebook post. “He will never be forgotten.”