An Arvada, Colorado officer who one of three killed in a shooting Monday was targeted by a suspect that had voiced his hatred towards cops, according to authorities.
Officer Gordon Beesley "was targeted because he was wearing an Arvada police uniform and a badge," police Chief Link Strate said at a news conference Tuesday. "Officer Beasley was ambushed by someone who expressed hatred of police officers."
According to Fox 13, Strate called the incident a "deliberate act of violence" as well as an "isolated incident." Additional details pertaining to the suspect and how they knew his views towards the police are not provided.
Arvada Police Officer Gordon Beesley - End Of Watch 6/21/2021 pic.twitter.com/U9h5A1FJBa
— Arvada Police (@ArvadaPolice) June 22, 2021
The suspect, who was killed in the shootout, was identified as 59-year-old Ronald Troyke by Jefferson County coroner Annette Cannon. Arvada police spokesman Dave Snelling declined to say who shot the suspect, adding that was part of the ongoing investigation.
Details surrounding the death of a bystander, John Hurley, 40, of nearby Golden, who was described as "true hero who likely disrupted what could have been a larger loss of life," were not provided as well.
According to Fox 13, Beesley was a compassionate school resource officer, and 19-year veteran of the Arvada Police Department.
According to his school resource officer biography, he played the drums in a band, the Railbenders, and enjoyed outdoors activities like hiking, biking, skiing, and camping with his family. Beesley's motto was "Look for the good in every day."
Beesley leaves behind a wife and two sons.
As a school resource officer, Oberon Middle School counselor David Ruppert said "the kids gravitated toward him. They looked at him as someone I can go to."
The city of Arvada planned an evening vigil for Beesley at Peace Lutheran Church.
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