Colorado Springs is mourning the loss of a dedicated public servant as the community reels from the tragic death of parole officer Christine Guerin Sandoval. The 41-year-old mother, daughter, wife, and protector was killed in a hit-and-run crash on Thursday while trying to contact a suspect in his car. The suspect, Justin Andrew Kula, 41, allegedly struck Sandoval and another officer as he fled the scene.

According to Colorado Springs Police Department spokesperson Ira Cronin, Sandoval was with two other parole officers in the parking lot of a business when they tried to check on Kula's welfare. Kula was known to the officers and they were simply trying to ensure his safety. Tragically, Sandoval never made it work home to her own family that day.

“It is with deep sadness that I let you know that a community parole officer died today as a result of injuries sustained in the line of duty,” said Andre Stancil, director of the Colorado Department of Corrections at a news conference on Friday. Governor Jared Polis also released a statement expressing his condolences and gratitude to all the officers and first responders who risk their lives every day to protect Coloradans.

Kula was eventually arrested after a shelter-in-place was issued in the 400 block of Glen View Court. Cronin credited community members' tips, in response to a Blue Alert about the suspect and his vehicle, with his capture. Blue Alerts are activated when a person suspected of injuring or killing a law enforcement officer is at large.

Charges are pending against Kula, including manslaughter, leaving the scene of an accident resulting in death, and third-degree assault on a peace officer. District Attorney Michael Allen stated that the El Paso County District Attorney's office will ultimately decide what charges Kula will face and even potential murder or homicide charges are being considered.At the news conference, Stancil spoke of Sandoval's dedication to her job and her community. “Christine took an oath and that oath was to protect the citizens of the state of Colorado and she lost her life doing just that,” he said. The other officer, who has not been named, is recovering at home after being released from the hospital.

The tragic death of Officer Sandoval serves as a reminder of the dangerous and complex work that all law enforcement officers face each day and the high price that too many of them pay to keep us safe from harm.As Sandoval's loved ones and colleagues mourn her loss, the Colorado Springs community stands in solidarity and offers its deepest condolences.