Citizens of Bristol, Connecticut, are mourning the loss of two Bristol Police Department officers who were gunned down during an incident on Wednesday night when they responded to a domestic disturbance call. Taking place around 10:30 p.m. on October 12, the officers received a 911 call about domestic violence and quickly traveled to the location. Arriving at the house, the officers were met by a suspect who quickly opened fire on the group, killing one officer instantly and wounding two others. While wounded, the officers were able to fire back, killing the individual.

Containing the situation, the two wounded officers were rushed to a nearby hospital while the third officer was pronounced dead. One officer is currently being treated at the hospital and is considered to be in serious condition as of Thursday morning. Bristol Police Chief Brian Gould released the identities of the officers killed as Sergeant Dustin Demonte (35) and Officer Alex Hamzy (34). Sadly, Sgt. Demonte leaves behind his wife, two children, and a baby on the way. Officer Hamzy, who was with the force for eight years, is mourned by his wife, two sisters, and parents. The other officer, Alex Lurrato, is recovering in the hospital after undergoing surgery. 

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Ordering the flags to half-staff to honor the officers, Connecticut Governor Ned Lamont offered his prayers to the families, stating, “My prayers are with their families, loved ones, and fellow officers. I also ask the residents of Connecticut to keep in their prayers a third officer who was shot while responding to this emergency and is currently in the hospital with serious injuries.”

The Governor added, “This is a devastating reminder of the dangers that police officers face every day to protect our families and neighbors from all kinds of situations. These officers are heroes and will always be remembered for the honorable service they provided to their town and their state.”

Not wanting their fellow officers to be alone at the Bristol Hospital, Heidi Voight shared images of dozens of offices standing outside. She tweeted, “RIGHT NOW: A huge procession of officers lined up outside Bristol Hospital where firefighters have draped a large American flag. Three officers were shot overnight on Red Stone Hill Road. Live coverage on @NBCConnecticut.”

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Bristol Superintendent of Schools Catherine M. Carbone sent a letter to families, explaining, “It is with a heavy heart that we share the news of this morning from Bristol. Three Bristol police officers were shot overnight, two fatally, after responding to a call for assistance. As the details of this tragedy emerge, we will stand together in support of each other and our community at large. Over the coming hours and days, we will provide you with updates and additional information as it becomes available. We offer our heartfelt thoughts and condolences to the victims’ families and friends and the entire Bristol Police Department during this very difficult time.”

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