DeKalb County, GA – A DeKalb county police officer was murdered in the line of duty Thursday night.

The incident started as a traffic stop at Candler Rd and I-20, according to WSB-TV.

During the traffic stop, the suspect fled on foot. While fleeing, he turned and opened fire on the officer, shooting him.

The officer was transported to the hospital where he succumbed to his injuries.

Backup officers began a K9 track for the gunman, and tracked him behind a store where the gunman shot the K9.

Officers returned fire and permanently ensured he’d never hurt anybody again.

The unidentified fallen officer had been with the department for less than two years.

The dead suspect has not been identified at this time.

The K9 remains in critical condition, and is being treated for gunshot wounds.

Our thoughts and prayers remain with DeKalb county and the family of the murdered officer.

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