05/09/2026
Officer Elijah Garretson died in the line of duty on January 10, 2026. He was just 27 years old. The Copperas Cove Police Department in Texas said Elijah was shot while trying to arrest a wanted suspect. He was rushed to the hospital, but doctors could not save him. His death has left his family, the department, and the community heartbroken.
Before becoming a police officer, Elijah served his country in the U.S. Army for 7 years. He was stationed at Fort Hood and reached the rank of Sergeant before leaving the Army in June 2024. After that, he followed his dream of becoming a police officer. On June 13, 2025, during police academy training, Elijah helped save the life of a fellow cadet who suffered cardiac arrest, according to department statements. He graduated from the police academy as the top student in his class.
Elijah had only been a police officer for 7 months, but his positive impact on the community was already clear. On January 16, 2026, Elijah's aunt, Dara Garretson, started a GoFundMe page. And so far, the community has raised over $49,000. In a statement, Dara said, "The proceeds from these donations will primarily go into a trust for the education, care, and raising of his daughter Elliana." The goal for the GoFundMe is $118,000 because his badge number was 118. He leaves behind his wife Lexi and their 5-year-old daughter, Elliana. Elijah, you did all you could do. Thank you for everything you did.
(Photo: The Garretson family / Copperas Cove Police Department)
