SALT LAKE CITY, Utah, Aug. 27, 2025 (Gephardt Daily) — On the day of their public viewing in Tremonton, Gov. Spencer Cox shared a tribute to fallen officers Sgt. Lee Sorensen and Officer Eric Estrada, of the Tremonton Garland Police Department.
They were fatally shot in the line of duty on Sunday, Aug. 17, while responding to a domestic violence call.
Deputy Mike Allred and his K-9 partner Azula also were shot, but survived after emergency surgery.
“This past week has been heartbreaking for our state,” Cox said in his statement.
“Utah lost two remarkable officers from the Tremonton-Garland Police Department: Sergeant Lee Sorensen and Officer Eric Estrada. They embodied the very best of public service: courage, integrity, and an unwavering willingness to put others first. We will never forget their sacrifice.
“Sergeant Sorensen dedicated 17 years to law enforcement and had just been promoted to sergeant, a reflection of the deep trust he earned from his colleagues. Earlier this year, he received the Tremonton Fire Department’s Distinguished Service Award and, together with his wife, was honored with Garland City’s Wheelon Award for lasting contributions to the community.
“Officer Estrada served with heart in every assignment. He was known as a devoted husband and father who brought professionalism and kindness to the job every day. Friends, neighbors, and fellow officers will remember him as someone who cared deeply and served selflessly.”
Sgt. Lee Sorensen and Officer Eric Estrada, Tremonton Garland Police Department. Photo: Utah Department of Public Safety
Cox also talked about Allred and Azula.
“We also keep in our thoughts Deputy Mike Allred of the Box Elder County Sheriff’s Office and his K-9 partner Azula, who were wounded. We are grateful for their courage and are praying for their full recovery,” Cox said.
“To the Sorensen and Estrada families: Abby and I, and the entire state of Utah, grieve with you. Please know that you are not alone, and that Utah will always remember the service and sacrifice of your loved ones.”
Deputy Mike Allred and K-9 Azula, Box Elder County Sheriff’s Office. Photo: Utah DPS
Funeral services for both men will be held at the USU Spectrum, at 900 East and 900 North, Logan. Services for Estrada will be at 10 a.m. Thursday, Aug. 28. Services for Sorensen will be at 10 a.m. Friday, Aug. 29. Their burials will be private.
