UPDATE: Sources say the officer was struck by friendly fire during the shootout. New details HERE
A Maryland police officer who was shot and killed outside a police station in Prince George’s county Sunday was originally from the Philadelphia area.
Prince George’s County narcotics officer Jacai Colson, 28, was shot in what investigators describe as an “unprovoked attack” outside the District III station in Landover, Maryland.
Investigators say a gunman opened fire outside the front door of the station around 4:30 p.m. Sunday. Colson returned fire but was shot in the process. The 4-year veteran, who would have celebrated his 29th birthday this week, was taken to the hospital where he later died from his injuries. The alleged gunman was also shot during the incident but is expected to survive. He remains under police custody at an area hospital. A second suspect was also taken in for questioning. Charges are pending.
A member of the Upper Chichester Police Department confirmed with NBC10 that Colson was from Upper Chichester and graduated from Chichester High School in 2005. Sources told NBC Washington that Delaware State Police and Pennsylvania State Police will escort Colson’s family to Maryland.
Maryland Governor Larry Hogan ordered flags to fly at half-staff in honor of Officer Colson.
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"The First Lady and I send our sincere prayers to the family and loved ones of Officer Colson, who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to his fellow citizens and community,” Hogan said in a released statement. “It is my hope that his proud legacy of commitment and passion for law enforcement and serving others will provide some comfort in the difficult days that lie ahead."
CLICK HERE for more details on the shooting and investigation.
