YARMOUTH, Massachusetts -- The Yarmouth Police officer shot serving a warrant in Barstable today has died and a man with last known address in Somerville will be charged tomorrow with his murder.
"With deep sorrow and heavy hearts the Yarmouth Police Department reports the loss of Officer Sean Gannon. Officer Sean Gannon was killed in the line of duty today," read to a statement posted on the Yarmouth Police Department Facebook page.
The Cape and Islands District Attorney’s office identified the suspect as Thomas Latanowich, 29, last known address in Somerville.
Latanowich will be arraigned tomorrow at First District Court in Barnstable, said Tara L. Miltimore, Assistant District Attorney, in a statement.
" He will be charged with murder," she said.
A K-9 officer, Gannon was shot while serving a warrant at 109 Blueberry Lane, in the Marstons Mills village of Barnstable. His K-9 partner was also injured, according to State Police.
Police swarmed the area, as SWAT officers took up positions around the house.
Neighbor John Machado, 67, and his wife Jacqueline, 66, were arriving home at about 4 p.m. when police told them they had to leave the area.
"We were just returning home, we were on an errand, when police were arriving at that point," John Machado said. "I was outside doing yard work when it all took place."
"Police told us to leave because it was dangerous, I was told to leave because it was a highly dangerous situation," Jacqueline Machado said. "The police were out with their cars and they had their guns."
Latanowich later was taken into custody. He will be arraigned on a murder charge at Barnstable District Court.
Police cruisers with their blue lights flashing escorted his body from the hospital to the medical exminer's office. Laster, as a light rain overtook the Cape, a caravan of flashing lights and blaring sirens accompanied Gannon's cruiser as it was returned to the station.
Outside the men and women of the department stood in ranks on either side of the road.
"Present arms!" their commander shouted.
Two dozen arms shot up in a hand salute as a flat bed tow truck steered between the formations, lashed to it's back was the slain officers cruiser.
A moment after it passed the commander ordered the ranks at ease and then dismissed. They dispersed beneath a flag flying at half staff, and rain that was now pouring down.
"With a heavy heart, our condolences go out tonight to our brothers & sisters of the Yarmouth Police & to Officer Sean Gannon's family & friends. We are also praying tonight for the recovery of Officer Gannon's K9 partner, who was also injured in today's tragic incident," said the Massachusetts State Police in a statement posted to Twitter.
“I am heartbroken to learn of the passing of Officer Gannon and my thoughts and prayers are with his family, loved ones and the Yarmouth Police Department after this tragic loss. The Commonwealth is blessed to have courageous men and women who put their lives on the line to protect our communities every day.” said Gov. Charlie Baker.
The Arlington Police Department expressed its condolences: "Rest In Peace K9 Officer Sean Gannon. Our thoughts and prayers continue to be with the entire Cape Cod law enforcement community, as well as Officer Gannon's family and friends. We are with you,"
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