Roswell Police Officer Killed In Shooting, Suspect Identified

ROSWELL, GA — A 24-year-old police officer was fatally shot while responding to a call Friday night in Roswell, according to the Georgia Bureau of Investigation. A suspect has been identified and is in custody.

The Roswell Police Department identified the officer as Jeremy Labonte, 24. According to GBI, the police officer had responded to a suspicious person report around 7:15 p.m. Friday in the area of King's Market near Market Boulevard in Roswell. The officer found Edward Espinoza, 23, in the parking lot near ACE Pickleball Club and was approaching Espinoza for questioning. Authorities say the suspect pulled out a handgun and fired multiple shots at the officer.

Witnesses had called 911, and Espinoza was taken into custody. The officer was taken to the hospital but later died.

Espinoza, who GBI identified as a U.S. citizen, is being charged with malice murder, felony murder, aggravated assault on a peace officer, and possession of a firearm during the commission of a felony. The investigation continues, and GBI encourages anyone with information to contact authorities.

Labonte had been with the police department since November 2021, Roswell Police say.

"Over the years that followed, Officer Labonte faithfully and joyfully served the Roswell community as a member of the nightshift patrol alongside his D-Squad brothers and sisters," the police department said. He was universally beloved by all who were blessed to know him as a friend, a husband, a son, and a public servant. His absence now leaves a void that could never be filled."

The police department has placed a memorial vehicle outside its headquarters at 39 Hill St. in Roswell. Residents are invited to pay respects and leave tributes for Labonte. Funeral arrangements will be announced at a later time with respect to the family's wishes.

"We have been deeply moved by the outpouring of support from agencies and communities across the nation," the police department said.