It’s an incredibly tough day for all law enforcement across America as two officers in Orlando, Florida, have died following a shootout with a murder suspect and subsequent pursuit.
A manhunt is now underway for Markeith Loyd, who is wanted for murdering a pregnant woman, after he shot and killed 17-year veteran Master Sergeant Deborah Clayton.
Markeith Loyd is the suspect who shot OPD officer this morning. Anyone w/info please call 1-800-423-TIPS @CrimelineFL pic.twitter.com/TeABsCsTh4
— Orlando Police (@OrlandoPolice) January 9, 2017
The OPD also released touching video of Clayton’s body being escorted out of the hospital, while other officers standby in full salute.
The Orlando Police Department family is heartbroken today. One of our own was taken in the line of duty. There are no words. pic.twitter.com/M48o1nnr4h
— Orlando Police (@OrlandoPolice) January 9, 2017
The sad irony is that today is also law officer appreciation day, and the realities of what our nation’s police risk on a day to day basis was made tragically poignant when not one, but two officers fell in the line of duty.
Officer Clayton was responding to reports that the murder suspect sought by police had been sighted, during that response Loyd opened fire on multiple officers, including Clayton.
Loyd then carjacked a vehicle and fled the scene.
The Sheriff’s department got involved in the pursuit, and a responding deputy was traveling on a motorcycle. Another motorist pulled out in front of the motorcycle, causing a crash. The deputy later died at the hospital from his injuries sustained in the accident. Their name is being withheld from the public until family is notified.
Officer Clayton was a long time veteran of the OPD and she even attended church with some of her fellow officers.
“We’re a huge family” the OPD said a live press conference today.
OPD @ChiefJohnMina: one of our heroes in blue was shot and killed in the line of duty today. #fallenofficer pic.twitter.com/gEEibYSyo7
— Orlando Police (@OrlandoPolice) January 9, 2017
Clayton leaves behind a husband and two children.
The day started off with much more promise, as the OPD tweeted out a promotional video for their event called ‘Coffee with Cops’ which is aimed at building bridges within the community.
“What do you think about what’s going on nationally?” one officer asks a citizen in a similar event previously.
“It’s not going to be fixed overnight,” the person responds, and a friendly conversation ensues.
Watch the video below:
Join us this morning @McD_CentralFL 2503 N. John Young Pkwy. for Coffee with a Cop. 7:30-9:30. Come by for a free cup of coffee! pic.twitter.com/8VkYYFOIAw
— Orlando Police (@OrlandoPolice) January 9, 2017
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