SAN MARCOS, Texas -- A police officer was shot and killed while serving a warrant in the El Camino Real subdivision in San Marcos Monday afternoon. 

The officer was identified as 58-year-old Kenneth Copeland.

“This individual began firing at the officers much like in an ambush type of situation and Officer Copeland was struck several times,” said Chief Chase Stapp, of the San Marcos Police Department.

The suspect was transported to an Austin hospital with a gunshot wound. Authorities said it is unclear if the suspect was shot during the standoff or if the wound was self-inflicted. 

Copeland was a 19-year veteran of the San Marcos Police Department and the department’s first officer to die in the line of duty. He leaves behind a wife and four kids. 

Attorney General Ken Paxton relased the following statement:

“Along with everyone learning of a San Marcos police officer’s murder today, I am deeply troubled and saddened. Officers around our state courageously serve and deserve our utmost honor and respect, especially during this time. Please join Angela and me as we pray for the officer’s family, the people of San Marcos, and for our law enforcement officers around the state.”

Several area law enforcement agencies expressed their condolences on social media.

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