TREMONTON, Utah, Sept. 1, 2025 (Gephardt Daily) — The Garland Fire Department on Labor Day shared a post thanking all who quietly stepped forward to assist after the Aug. 17 shooting deaths of Sgt. Lee Sorensen and Officer Eric Estrada of the Tremonton Garland Police Department, and the injury shootings of Box Elder County Sheriff Deputy Mike Allred and K-9 Azula.
All were on duty, responding to a domestic violence call, when they were shot.
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“This Labor Day, as many pause to celebrate the strength and dedication of America’s workforce, we want to take a moment to recognize the incredible resilience of our own community and the many agencies who stood shoulder-to-shoulder with us during one of the most difficult periods in our history,” the Garland Fire statement says.
“The past few weeks have been filled with unimaginable challenges. Our small town has endured loss and heartbreak none of us ever thought we would face here at home. Together, we have been on a roller coaster of emotions—grief, shock, sorrow, and also gratitude. As we continue to take steps toward healing, we are reminded that even in the darkest of times, there are moments of light.
“That light has come through in the form of support, compassion, and the hands that reached out to lift us when we needed it most. Today, we want to say thank you.”
The statement singled out several agencies and individuals who quietly stepped up, with dignity and kindness, when they were needed most.
To Corrine Fire Department:
“On Sunday, Aug. 17th, you came without hesitation to staff our station so that our own responding crews could take time to debrief, decompress, and begin processing the weight of the tragedy. That simple yet profound act gave us space to grieve and start healing. Your willingness to put aside your own needs to cover for us is something we will never forget.”
Corinne Fire Department. Photo: corinnecity.gov
To our Peer Support Team- First Responders First:
“Thank you for dropping everything at a moment’s notice to ensure that the mental health of our responders was not only acknowledged, but cared for. In our line of work, we often put others before ourselves and rarely talk about our own struggles. Your compassion and dedication to the well-being of first responders brought hope and healing in ways words cannot express. You reminded us that it’s okay to not be okay—and that there is strength in leaning on one another.”
To North Davis Fire District:
“Your willingness to provide station coverage so that our department could attend the funerals of our fallen brothers was a gift beyond measure. That opportunity allowed us to grieve together as a family, to honor their lives, and to take a meaningful step forward in the healing process. Your sacrifice on our behalf will forever hold a place in our hearts.”
Photo: North Davis Fire District
To our Tremonton Garland Police Department & Box Elder County Sheriff’s Office family:
“Though our uniforms and patches may look different, our purpose is the same: to protect, to serve, and to stand with our community. We are grateful for your strength, your courage, and your commitment. Please know that we see you, we hear you, and we stand beside you—not just in moments of tragedy, but always.”
Photo: Box Elder County Sheriff
To our 911 dispatchers at Box Elder Communications Center-BECC:
“Thank you for being the calm voices on the radio, not only that night, but every day. In moments of crisis, you provide guidance, reassurance, and support that keeps our crews and community safe. Your work may be behind the scenes, but it never goes unnoticed. We are truly grateful for all you do for Box Elder County’s public safety agencies.”
And to the Estrada and Sorensen families:
“Words will never fully capture the depth of our sorrow or the strength of our support for you. We continue to mourn the loss of Officer Estrada and Sergeant Lee Sorensen, and we will forever remember their service, sacrifice, and legacy. Please know that the first responder family stands united with you—not just today, not just tomorrow, but for all the days ahead. Our love and support remain with you.”
Sgt. Lee Sorensen and Officer Eric Estrada, Tremonton Garland Police Department. Photos: Utah DPS
To our community and every other agency who stepped forward:
“Whether through words of encouragement, acts of service, or simply being present, you have reminded us what makes Box Elder County such a special place to call home. Your support, your willingness to step in where needed, and your love for first responders has been a source of strength and comfort. You have proven that the good truly does outweigh the bad, and that even in sorrow, community shines brighter than anything else.
“As we reflect this Labor Day, we are humbled. Humbled by the sacrifices made by our brothers and sisters in service. Humbled by the resilience of our families. Humbled by the outpouring of love from our community.
“From the bottom of our hearts—thank you. Thank you for standing with us, for lifting us up, and for reminding us that we are never alone. Together, we will continue to heal, and together, we will continue to serve.”
Box Elder County. Image: Google Maps
