TERRELL, Texas — A Terrell Police Officer was shot and killed while conducting a traffic stop and the suspect who allegedly shot him is in police custody, the department said.
Officer Jacob Candanoza, 28, conducted a traffic stop and requested a cover unit around 11 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 8 in the 1600 block of S. State Highway 34, Mary Hauger, a spokesperson for the department said in a press conference Monday. Shortly after, the department received two 911 calls stating an officer was shot, Hauger said.
As officers arrived on the scene, which was near a Super 8 motel, they confirmed Candanoza was shot, according to a press release from the department. He was taken to a hospital where he died, police said.
Full update from police Monday morning:
Candanoza was able to provide the license plate number of the initial traffic stop, which allowed state Highway Patrol and off-duty officers to find the vehicle and pursue it into Van Zandt County where police took the suspect into custody, according to officials on the scene.
"We want to extend our deepest condolences to the family during this hard time," Hauger said.
Candanoza was sworn in as a member of the Terrell Police Department July 15, 2024. He previously served in the Marine Corps from 2014 to 2019 before joining the Dallas County Sheriff's Office as a courtesy patrol technician.
The Terrell Police Department has made a Facebook post detailing how the community can support the Candanoza family, including a bank account set up for donations.
Those who wish to donate electronically can do so here. Donations can be brought in perosn to American National Bank, referencing the Jacob Candanoza Memorial Fund, and the Terrell Police Headquarters. Donations can also be mailed to American National Bank, PO Box 40, Terrell, TX 75160 Attn Mary Spears; or Terrell Police Department 1100 N. State Highway 34, Terrell, TX 75160.
Terrell is located about 30 miles east of Dallas.
A candlelight vigil will be held at 6 p.m. Wednesday at the Terrell Police Headquarters to remember the life and legacy of our fallen officer Jacob Candanoza.