In a tragic incident in Austin, Texas, a barricaded gunman, holding three hostages, fatally shot a SWAT officer early Saturday, FOX News reports.

Authorities confirmed that the assailant was killed at the scene after a confrontation with the police.

Two apparent victims were found dead inside the residence following a 4 AM police entry, during which officers exchanged gunfire with the suspect, as detailed by interim Austin Police Chief Robin Henderson during a press briefing.

The fallen Texas SWAT officer was identified as Officer Jorge Pastore.

Henderson recounted that the officers initially responded to the home before 3 AM, prompted by a distressed woman's screams claiming she was being stabbed.

One hostage managed to escape before the police arrived, alerting them to the armed suspect wielding a knife inside.

Upon attempting entry, officers faced gunfire and withdrew without retaliating.

Subsequently, a SWAT team was summoned for assistance. In the exchange of gunfire that ensued, the suspect was killed at the scene, and two officers were wounded.

Regrettably, one officer succumbed to injuries at the hospital, while the second was reported to be in stable condition but later also died with a cause of death unrelated to the deadly shooting, CBS Austin noted.

The identities of the wounded officer, the suspect, and the two other victims have not yet been disclosed.

Chief Henderson indicated that a thorough investigation into the shootout would be conducted by both the Austin Police Department's internal affairs division and the special investigation unit in collaboration with the Travis County District Attorney's Office.

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The Texas SWAT Officer

Officer Jorge Pastore, who joined the Austin Police Department in 2019, served not only as a patrol officer but also contributed to various specialized units, including the Honor Guard, SWAT Gold Team, Counter Assault Strike Team, and Special Response Team, according to KXAN.

He is survived by his wife, two stepsons, parents, and two sisters. A solemn procession was held by the APD from the hospital to the medical examiner's office in honor of Pastore.

Reflecting on the tragedy, Austin Mayor Kirk Watson remarked, "We rely on brave people who are in harm's way when they are serving us. We should never lose sight of that. This event jarringly brings home that truth. The danger and potential loss are not theoretical - it's very, very real."

This unfortunate incident marks the first time an officer has been shot and killed on duty in Austin since 2012, according to the Austin Police Association memorial website.

Over the past decade, six other officers have lost their lives due to accidents or complications related to COVID-19.

Friends React to Texas SWAT Officer's Death

Dennis Farris, president of the Austin Police Retired Officers Association, remembered Pastore as having a "big personality" and lamented the loss of a "true hero."

Ken Casaday, former Austin police officer and union president, echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the Texas SWAT officer's dedication to his role as a police officer and his positive demeanor.

Farris expressed a hope that, in the coming days and weeks, the community would show appreciation for Austin police officers, acknowledging the often-overlooked challenges of their "thankless" job, per Austin American-Stateman.

He urged Austinites to recognize the vital role played by the police force in ensuring the safety of the community.

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This article is owned by Latin Post.

Written by: Bert Hoover

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