Colorado Springs was struck by tragedy as Parole Officer Christine Sandoval lost her life in a horrifying hit-and-run incident involving two officers. The incident occurred on Thursday, September 28, 2023, and marked the first time since 2013, when DOC Director Tom Clements was tragically murdered, that a corrections officer was killed on duty.
The Colorado Department of Corrections confirmed the devastating news, announcing Officer Sandoval’s passing after the hit-and-run. The incident led to an urgent response from law enforcement agencies, prompting the California Highway Patrol to issue a “Blue Alert Activation” to locate the suspect, Justin Kula, who fled the scene of the accident.
The Blue Alert Program, a collaborative effort between CBI, local law enforcement, and media outlets, aims to warn the public about dangerous suspects who have harmed peace officers. In this case, the alert was swiftly activated, urging the community to remain vigilant.
John Orey shared a post on fb on the death of Kula:
Colorado Parole Officer Christine Sandoval was killed in the line of duty by a hit and run driver late yesterday afternoon in Colorado Springs. Her and 2 other parole officers were going to save a warrant when a wanted parole hit them with the vehicle, and fleeing the scene. The suspect was arrested later that evening. Since the investigation is in very early stages it is very difficult to know what actually occurred, but in my professional opinion it appears that this was an intentional act. Another officer was hospitalized, but released. As many of you know I retired from the Colorado Div. Of Adult Parole in late 2014. I did not know Officer Sandoval as she was relatively new to the parole profession, but that doesn’t diminish the sting much. As we find with most of these tragedies , Officer Sandoval was a wife, mother and daughter. Please think of her family and extended law enforcement familu.
The suspect, Kula, was last seen driving a charcoal gray 2015 Lexus RX330 with Colorado license plate CDA346. After a manhunt, law enforcement officers apprehended Kula around 7:45 p.m. in downtown Colorado Springs, near North Spruce and West Bijou Streets. Kula faces serious charges, including second-degree assault on a peace officer, resisting arrest, and parole violations, in addition to the hit-and-run incident.
A funeral march was organized in Colorado Springs to honor Officer Christine Sandoval, whose tragic loss reverberates throughout the community. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the risks officers face in the line of duty and emphasizes the importance of the Blue Alert Program in swiftly responding to such grave threats.
The community joins together in grief, remembering Officer Sandoval’s dedication and sacrifice, while law enforcement continues their pursuit of justice for her and her family.
Categories: News
Source: vothisaucamau.edu.vn
