In a tragic event that has left a deep impact on the Indianapolis community, a police officer lost her life while responding to a domestic violence incident. Officer Breann Leath, who was only 24 years old, became the first African-American female officer to be killed in the history of the Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department (IMPD). Her untimely death has drawn attention to the risks law enforcement officers face and has prompted an outpouring of support from the community and her colleagues.

On the day of the incident, Officer Leath, alongside two fellow officers, responded to a call about a domestic dispute on the east side of Indianapolis. Upon their arrival, a confrontation ensued involving a male suspect and a female victim. The situation escalated quickly when the male suspect shot at the woman as she attempted to escape the apartment. In a horrific turn of events, he then turned the weapon on Officer Leath, fatally wounding her.

It is with a broken heart and a shaken resolve that I announce the loss of @IMPDnews Officer Breann Leath (B231) who today was shot and killed responding to a domestic call. Please keep Officer Leath’s family and ours in your prayers. #CommunityHero pic.twitter.com/SfDpCx5nJT

— Chief Chris Bailey (@IMPD_Chief) April 9, 2020

Despite being rushed to the hospital, Officer Leath was pronounced dead upon arrival. Meanwhile, the female victim of the domestic violence incident sustained injuries that were serious but not life-threatening. This incident highlights the dangers that officers encounter daily, often putting their lives on the line to protect others.

In the wake of this tragedy, Officer Leath’s family expressed their grief and gratitude for the community’s support. In a heartfelt video, her mother, Jennifer Leath, spoke about her daughter’s dedication to her work and her innate desire to help those in need. She emphasized that Breann was living her dream as a police officer and was known for her kindness and willingness to lend a hand to anyone in distress. “I hope her classmates and her shift mates know how much she loved this job and cherished every moment of it,” Jennifer remarked, highlighting the passion Breann had for her career in law enforcement.

Breann joined the IMPD just two years prior to her death, and she was assigned to the east district where she made a significant impact in her role. Her commander, Richard Riddle, noted the historical significance of her death, as she was not only the first African-American female officer to be killed in the department’s history but also remembered for her vibrant personality and commitment to the community. “From when she started at the academy and her time on East District, it was spent with a big smile, a big beautiful smile. She was a very caring person who did everything she could to make people feel better and to go out of her way to help those in need,” Riddle reflected, emphasizing her positive spirit and dedication.

KILLED IN THE LINE OF DUTY:
Officer Breann Leath, 24
-A mother to a young child
-A lifelong Indianapolis resident
-A member of the Army National Guard
-Officer of the Month 2019

Rest in Peace, Officer Leath, you did not deserve this. pic.twitter.com/HiOe1oOd7B

— Darius Johnson (DJ) (@DariusJohnsonTV) April 9, 2020

IMPD Chief Randal Taylor further acknowledged Officer Leath’s legacy, describing her as a kind and loving individual. He shared that she was not only a devoted officer but also a mother herself, underscoring the personal loss felt by her family and the community. Officer Leath’s background in a family dedicated to public service and her lifelong residence in Indianapolis added to the sense of loss felt by many.

As a tribute to her service, Officer Leath’s patrol car has been placed outside the IMPD East District headquarters, allowing community members to pay their respects. A ceremony to honor her life and service is planned, although it will be closed to the public due to ongoing public health concerns. This decision reflects the department’s commitment to honoring her legacy while ensuring the safety of the community.

The suspect in this tragic incident, identified as 27-year-old Elliahs Dorsey, has been charged with multiple offenses, including one count of murder and several counts of attempted murder, along with charges of criminal confinement and battery resulting in serious bodily injury. The legal proceedings against Dorsey will proceed as the investigation continues.

The loss of Officer Breann Leath is a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by those who serve in law enforcement. Her dedication to her role, her compassionate nature, and her commitment to making a difference in her community will not be forgotten. In a time of grief, the support from the community and her colleagues has been a source of solace for her family, as they navigate this unimaginable loss.

Officer Leath’s story is one of courage and dedication, emblematic of the commitment many officers display in their service. As the community reflects on her life and the impact she made, there is a collective acknowledgment of the challenges faced by law enforcement officers. In remembering Officer Breann Leath, there is a call to honor her legacy by continuing to support those in uniform who risk their lives for the safety of others.

Her passing has sparked conversations about the need for awareness around domestic violence and the critical role police play in responding to such incidents. As communities unite to support law enforcement and the families affected by these tragic events, Officer Leath’s spirit will continue to inspire those who strive to serve and protect. The hope is that through these discussions and remembrance, strides can be made towards preventing such tragedies in the future, ensuring that the sacrifices of officers like Breann Leath are honored and never forgotten.