GRAND PRAIRIE, Texas — A North Texas police officer was killed Monday night after pursuing a vehicle with a fake paper license plate, according to the Grand Prairie Police Department (GPPD).
According to GPPD, at around 10:45 p.m. Monday, officer Brandon Paul Tsai was near the intersection of SW 3rd Street and Pioneer Parkway when he saw a vehicle with a fake paper license plate. Tsai attempted to stop the vehicle when the suspect immediately fled, police said.
During the pursuit, Tsai lost control of his squad car, GPPD said in a news release. Tsai rear-ended a squad car during the pursuit, losing control and hitting a light pole.
The 32-year-old was taken to Methodist Dallas Medical Center, where he died from his injuries.
Police released an image of the suspect vehicle with the paper tag that reads "0330S43." Police Chief Daniel Scesney said the tag has been captured on more than 200 vehicles in the Dallas area.
Anyone who sees the vehicle is urged to call police at 972-988-8477.
GPPD said Tsai had been with the department since January. Prior to joining GPPD, he served five years with the Los Angeles Police Department in California.
"He was a loving friend, a trusted colleague and an outstanding officer whose passion was providing service to the public," GPPD said of Tsai.
Scesney also wrote the statement in response to the officer's passing:
“Our nation lost a hero last night. Officer Brandon Tsai represented the very best among us and laid down his life protecting this city and all those who live within it. Our hearts are broken but we are grateful to all those who have extended their thoughts and prayers to Brandon’s family including his entire extended family who wear blue.”
Police said Tsai was an organ donor.
The crash is under investigation and there is no additional information available.
"Today we mourn with our brothers and sisters in blue. Our thoughts and prayers are with Officer Brandon Tsai’s family, friends, and the Grand Prairie Police," the Grand Prairie Fire Department tweeted Tuesday.
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