Today, we are reminded again by tragedy that the men and women of our police department put their lives on the line each and every day for our safety and protection.  Yesterday, Police Officer First Class Jacai Colson was killed in a gun battle with perpetrators who engaged in a heinous and unprovoked attack on the District III Police Station.  Officer Colson valiantly moved to protect his fellow officers once the station came under attack.  Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and the entire law enforcement community.  Officer Colson will be remembered for his courageous actions, his dedication to serving his community, and his bond with his brothers and sisters in law enforcement.  Please see the press release below from the Prince George’s County Police Department for more information.

-Mel Franklin

Suspect Ambushes Officer Outside Police Station; Officer Fatally Wounded

Prince George’s County Maryland sent this bulletin at 03/14/2016 11:10 AM EDT

The Prince George’s County Police Department is grieving after one of our officers lost his life in the line of duty this afternoon. Four-year veteran Police Officer First Class Jacai Colson was assigned to our Narcotic Enforcement Division. The 28 year-old detective was fatally wounded after exchanging gunfire with a suspect outside the District III station which is attached to our headquarters in Palmer Park.

The preliminary investigation reveals a suspect opened fire outside the front doors of the station around 4:30 pm. POFC Colson returned fire. Colson was shot and died a short time later. The suspect was also struck. He is expected to survive and remains under police custody at an area hospital.  Charges are pending. A second suspect was taken in for questioning. Investigators are working to determine the motive in this case.

Our department is eternally grateful for the overwhelming outpouring of support from our community, the law enforcement family and our elected leaders.

PGPD Press Release online: https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/MDPGC/bulletins/13cbefa