A St. Louis Metropolitan Police Officer reportedly died after being shot in the head by a gunman.
Officer Tamarris L. Bohannon, 29, died Sunday after responding to a shooting on the city’s south side, according to 6abc. Bohannon had been with the police department for 3.5 years, a spokesperson told the outlet.
“I’ve had the privilege of spending some time with his family under these extraordinarily challenging circumstances,” Mayor Lyda Krewson said in a statement, according to the outlet. “They’re wonderful people and immensely proud of the way he selflessly served and protected our community with distinction and honor for more than three years.” (RELATED: Oregon Man Driving Stolen Vehicle Crashes Into Woman Driving Stolen Vehicle)
“This is a horrific reminder of the dangers our brave men and women willingly face everyday to keep us safe … This is a terrible, senseless tragedy,” she added.
Police Chief John Hayden said the gunman ordered a family out of their home and barricaded himself inside for 12 hours. Police had the streets around the home closed off and used tear gas to try to get the gunman out of the home, 6abc reported. There were reportedly no shots fired by police.
Hayden said the police officers have been “trying to do their job, that’s all they’re trying to do and they’re suffering under gunfire.”
The police chief claimed there had been “a surge in violence” this summer.
“We’re trying to cope through a very trying summer, and it’s very difficult,” he told the outlet. “It’s very difficult.”