Tremonton Shooting: Two Officers, Including Lee Sorensen, Killed; Suspect Identified as Ryan Michael Bate
TREMONTON, Utah — The Tremonton community is reeling after a violent tragedy unfolded late Sunday night, leaving two police officers dead and others injured during a domestic disturbance response. Authorities have identified 33-year-old Ryan Michael Bate as the suspect in the fatal shooting.
The Incident
According to officials, the chaos began when multiple 911 hang-up calls were made from a residence near 700 North and 200 East in Tremonton. Officers from the Tremonton Garland Police Department were dispatched to investigate the situation. Upon arrival, the officers were met with gunfire.
In the exchange, Officer Lee Sorensen and a fellow Tremonton officer—whose identity has not yet been released—were fatally shot. Their deaths mark a devastating loss for the department and the wider Box Elder County community.
A Box Elder County sheriff’s deputy was also struck by gunfire and sustained injuries, as did a police K-9. Both are reported to be in fair condition and are expected to recover.
Suspect Taken Into Custody
After the initial violence, authorities say bystanders at the scene were able to de-escalate the situation and convince Bate to surrender peacefully. He was immediately taken into custody without further incident.
Bate has since been booked into the Weber County Jail, facing multiple charges including aggravated murder and assault. Investigators are working to piece together the events leading up to the shootings and to determine what may have sparked the violence.
Remembering Officer Lee Sorensen and His Fallen Colleague
Officer Lee Sorensen, one of the fallen, was a respected member of the Tremonton Garland Police Department. Known for his dedication to protecting the community and his kindness both on and off duty, Sorensen’s death leaves behind not only grieving colleagues but also countless residents who admired his service.
The second officer, whose name has not been released pending family notifications, is also being remembered as a hero who made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty. The department and local leaders have promised to support the families of both officers as they navigate this unimaginable loss.
Community in Mourning
Local and state officials have expressed condolences, with flags expected to be lowered in honor of the fallen officers. Vigils and memorial services are being planned as the community comes together to grieve and to show support for the law enforcement families.
“This is a heartbreaking day for Tremonton, Garland, and all of Box Elder County,” a department spokesperson said. “We ask for privacy for the families as they grieve, and we thank the community for the outpouring of support.”
Ongoing Investigation
Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances of the domestic disturbance call and what may have led Bate to open fire on responding officers. Officials have emphasized that the investigation is active and more details will be released as they become available.
For now, the Tremonton community is left grappling with the loss of two of its protectors. Their sacrifice is a somber reminder of the dangers law enforcement officers face every day in the line of duty.
