Lee Sorensen, Eric Estrada Obituary, Death News – On Sunday night, tragedy struck Tremonton, Utah, when two police officers were fatally shot during a call that escalated into violence. Authorities have identified the suspect as 33-year-old Ryan Michael Bate, who is now facing multiple charges, including two counts of aggravated murder, one count of attempted aggravated murder, and one count of assault. He was taken into custody early Monday morning and booked into the Weber County Jail.
The incident began after several 911 hang-up calls prompted officers to respond. When they arrived, Bate, armed with a high-powered rifle, allegedly opened fire on officers Sgt. Lee Sorensen and Officer Eric Estrada, fatally striking both men. A Box Elder County sheriff’s deputy, who was on his way to provide backup, was also shot while inside his patrol vehicle. The deputy’s K-9 partner was injured as well. Fortunately, both the deputy and the dog are expected to recover.
The loss of Sgt. Sorensen, 56, and Officer Estrada, 31, has left a deep void in the Tremonton community. Sorensen, a 17-year veteran of law enforcement, dedicated most of his career to the Garland Police Department. He had recently been promoted to sergeant and was scheduled to be sworn in officially later in the week. Beyond his police work, Sorensen was recognized earlier this year with a Distinguished Service Award from the Tremonton Fire Department for his collaboration with fire and EMS teams. In 2020, he and his wife received Garland City’s Wheelon Award for their contributions to the community. He is remembered as a family man and leaves behind his wife and children.
Officer Estrada, who joined Tremonton Police earlier in 2024, had built a promising career in law enforcement since 2017. He previously served with the Logan Police Department, the Box Elder County Sheriff’s Office, and the North Park Police Department, where he worked as both a patrol officer and a detective. Estrada was especially passionate about community engagement, often participating in outreach efforts and enjoying time on patrol. Known for his warm personality and dedication, he leaves behind his wife, Brittney, and their two young children, Cienna and Luka.
Investigators have also revealed troubling details about Bate’s background. Court records show a history of domestic violence spanning several years. In 2021, he was arrested after a domestic dispute but later received a plea in abeyance, which dismissed charges once he complied with certain terms. In May 2024, Bate faced more serious allegations, including aggravated assault and multiple counts of domestic violence in the presence of children. Prosecutors said he choked a woman during that incident, leaving her unable to breathe, while children were nearby.
Although prosecutors objected, a judge lifted a no-contact order in June 2024, allowing Bate to resume contact with the alleged victim under conditions that prohibited violence. That case was ultimately dismissed in August 2024, just weeks before the fatal shooting.
As Tremonton grieves, law enforcement and the wider community are left mourning the lives of two officers who dedicated themselves to service and family. The investigation into the case continues.
