Cedar Hill Officers Placed on Leave After Early‑Morning Gunfire Exchange

Early Monday morning, two Cedar Hill police officers were drawn into a gunfire exchange that left a woman seriously wounded. The incident unfolded just before 2 a.m. at a residence on Sleepy Hollow Drive. Officers had been dispatched after a caller reported that people were trying to harm his family. The rapid escalation of the situation caught the officers off guard.

Incident Overview

The officers received a 911 call indicating a potential family danger. They were traveling to the address when dispatch reported hearing a gunshot. The gunshot was heard while the officers were still on the road. This alerted the responding officers to the imminent threat.

Upon arrival, the officers reported being fired upon. They also stated that they returned fire in response. The exchange of gunfire began immediately after the officers entered the scene. No officers were injured during the confrontation.

The officers were able to evacuate two women from the home. One of the women was already shot before the officers arrived. She was taken to a hospital for treatment. Her condition was listed as serious.

Tactical Response

The officers quickly secured the perimeter around the residence. They called for additional support from the Southwest Regional Response Group’s Tactical Team. The tactical team arrived to assist with the situation. The officers remained in control of the scene.

At approximately 3:36 a.m., the suspect inside the home surrendered. He did so without further incident or resistance. The surrender was noted by the responding officers. No further gunfire was exchanged after the surrender.

Suspect Identification and Charges

Police identified the suspect as Dustin Hancock, a 44‑year‑old resident. He was booked into DeSoto Jail following the incident. He faces charges that include aggravated assault with a deadly weapon under family violence statutes. Additionally, he is charged with two counts of aggravated assault on a public servant.

Administrative Actions

The officers’ actions were deemed necessary in the face of an armed threat. The department policy requires that officers involved in a critical incident be placed on administrative leave. Accordingly, the officers have been placed on administrative leave. This is standard procedure during investigations.

Investigation

The Grand Prairie Police Department will conduct an investigation into the incident. The Dallas County District Attorney’s Public Integrity Unit will also be involved in the investigation. Both agencies will review the circumstances surrounding the officer‑involved shooting. Their findings will determine any further action.

Officer Safety and Training

The incident underscores the dangers that law enforcement officers face during early‑morning calls. Officers must remain vigilant even when responding to routine calls. The swift escalation to gunfire can catch officers off guard. Proper training and support are critical in such situations.

Surrender and Use of Force

The suspect’s surrender at 3:36 a.m. prevented further harm. The officers’ use of force was deemed justified given the threat they faced. The department will review the use of force logs for compliance with policy. No injuries to officers were reported.

Medical Response

The woman who was shot before the officers arrived was evacuated promptly. Her serious condition prompted immediate medical attention. The hospital staff treated her injuries as a priority. The outcome of her treatment remains under medical care.

Tactical Team Coordination

The tactical team’s arrival helped stabilize the situation. Their presence provided additional resources for the officers on scene. The team’s coordination with the officers was seamless. This cooperation helped secure the area and protect residents.

Legal Charges

The suspect was charged with aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, a serious offense. The charges reflect the severity of the alleged assault. The charges also include assaults on public servants, highlighting the threat to law enforcement. The suspect will be held in custody pending trial.

Administrative Leave

The administrative leave of the officers is temporary while investigations proceed. The department will conduct a thorough review of the incident. Officers will be reinstated if no misconduct is found. The process ensures accountability and transparency.

Investigation Details

The investigation by the Grand Prairie Police Department will examine all available evidence. The Dallas County District Attorney’s Public Integrity Unit will assess the legality of the officers’ actions. The findings will be released once the investigation concludes. The public will be informed of any outcomes.

Current Investigation Status

The case remains under active investigation. Authorities are working to determine the full circumstances of the gunfire exchange. The investigation will consider all aspects of the incident. The goal is to ensure justice and public safety.

Law Enforcement Reality

The incident serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of law enforcement work. Officers must be prepared for sudden escalation. Training, support, and clear protocols are essential. The department remains committed to officer safety.

Community Concerns

The community is concerned about the safety of residents. The police department is working to reassure the public. They emphasize that the officers acted in self‑defense. The department will continue to engage with the community.

Future Actions

The investigation will ultimately determine the appropriate course of action. The officers involved will be evaluated for compliance with department policy. The suspect’s legal case will proceed in court. The community will receive updates as the investigation progresses.

Key Takeaways

• Two Cedar Hill officers placed on administrative leave after a gunfire exchange.
• 44‑year‑old Dustin Hancock surrendered and faces multiple assault charges.
• Investigation by Grand Prairie Police and Dallas County DA’s Public Integrity Unit underway.

The case remains under investigation as authorities work to determine the full circumstances surrounding the gunfire exchange.