Deputy injured in Tremonton police shooting speaks out for the first time

BOX ELDER COUNTY, Utah (ABC4) — Deputy Mike Allred, who was injured while responding to a domestic violence call in Tremonton where two officers lost their lives, is speaking out for the first time since the incident.

Sgt. Lee Sorensen and Officer Eric Estrada were shot and killed. Deputy Allred of Box Elder County Sherrif’s Office and his K9 Azula were seriously injured that night.

“My heart breaks for the loss of my two Brothers, my friends. There is no doubt in my mind that they would do the same for me!! My heart aches for their families, all of my Brothers and Sisters who do this job. We may have different colors of uniforms but we all work together and are one big team. We are all hurting,” Allred said on a post on social media.

Allred shared that Azula, his K9 who was injured in the shooting, is healing and will be fine.

The deputy expressed thanks to his family for holding him together during this time.

“If I could ask one thing to come from this senseless tragedy, don’t forget how much love and support is being handed out right now. Communities are coming together, people are coming together. Kindness and love is being shared. Keep this moving forward and don’t stop ever,” Allred continued.

Who is Deputy Allred?

Deputy Allred has worked for Box Elder County Sheriff’s Office for five years and worked two of those years as a K9 handler with Azula. Azula is certified in narcotics detection and tracking.

Reportedly, Deputy Allred and Azula were third on scene of the domestic disturbance, as they responded to a call for back up. The suspect, later identified as Ryan Bate, allegedly shot several rounds at Allred’s vehicle using a high-powered rifle, hitting and injuring Deputy Allred and Azula.

Utah Governor Spencer Cox also visited them, and said, “Spent some time with K9 Officer Azula and her handler, Deputy Mike Allred. Both of them were wounded in the awful shooting in Tremonton, but are now home recovering. They are grateful for the prayers and outpouring of support from every corner of the state.”