Liverpool, New York – A tragic incident unfolded in Liverpool, New York, as a police officer and a sheriff’s deputy were fatally shot by a suspect who was later killed in an exchange of gunfire with law enforcement officials. The incident occurred on Sunday evening in Liverpool, located about 6 miles north of Syracuse.
The confrontation began when a Syracuse police officer attempted to pull over a vehicle believed to be driven by Christopher Murphy, 33. The driver refused to stop, leading officers to track the vehicle to an address in Liverpool with the assistance of the Onondaga County Sheriff’s Office.
Upon arriving at the residence, officers observed firearms inside the vehicle and heard suspicious noises coming from inside the house. Subsequently, a series of events unfolded where the suspect opened fire on law enforcement officials, resulting in casualties.
The Syracuse officer, sheriff’s deputy, and the suspect were rushed to Upstate University Hospital in Syracuse but tragically succumbed to their injuries. Governor Kathy Hochul expressed shock and grief over the incident, referring to the fallen officers as heroes.
This devastating event marks the loss of the first law enforcement officers in Onondaga County since 1990. The Syracuse community mourns the loss of the dedicated officers, with officials expressing their condolences and honoring their service and sacrifices.
As the investigation continues, law enforcement authorities plan to search the residence for further evidence. The suspect, Christopher Murphy, had no significant criminal record other than a past charge of driving while intoxicated.
The fallen Syracuse officer, with three years of service, was described as ambitious and diligent, while the deputy, a veteran of the department, was remembered as a respected individual. Syracuse Mayor Ben Walsh described the incident as a “dark day,” highlighting the profound impact it has had on the community.