ALGONA, IOWA: Kevin Cram, an Iowa police officer was fatally shot during an arrest attempt and the suspect was later caught in Minnesota.
On Thursday, September 14, officials stated that the 33-year-old husband and father was shot to death while trying to arrest Kyle Ricke, 43, just before 8 pm on Wednesday, September 13.
Mitch Mortvedt, assistant director of the Iowa Division of Criminal Investigation said that Cram was shifted to the Kossuth Regional Health Center in Algona where he was pronounced dead, according to CBS News.
Who is Kyle Ricke?
Kyle Ricke, who now faces first-degree murder charges in the death of Cram, was apprehended without incident in Brown County which is nearly 100 miles north of Algona.
Ricke is currently being held in Minnesota and is pending extradition to Iowa.
Following the deadly shooting, a Blue Alert was issued to make the public aware that a suspect had fled the scene and was considered a potential threat to law enforcement, according to Fox News.
At a news conference following the incident, Iowa Public Safety Commissioner Stephan Bayens said, "Tragic, heartbreaking, gut-wrenching pain and agony, but we will bow our backs, we will be strong, and we will continue to do our jobs."
Officials have not yet disclosed any information regarding Ricke's court date.
Kevin Cram's heartbroken grandmother talks about him becoming a police officer
Kevin's grandmother Mariann Cram recalled her being "kind of surprised" that he became part of law enforcement, according to The Des Moines Register.
Talking about why her grandson became a police officer, she said, “I think it was because of his brother Steve." Mariann added that Steve was an officer in Eagle Grove.
Cram who has been serving the Algona Police Department since 2015 was on patrol in Algona, a town of about 3,500 residents.
He learned of an arrest warrant issued for Ricke who was then charged with harassment, stated Mortvedt. Cram then met Ricke and informed him he would be taken into custody.
When Ricke was informed about his arrest, he shot Cram, according to Mortvedt.
The Algona Police Officer's tragic death leaves behind a grieving community and law enforcement fraternity.
Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds commented on Cram's service and dedication to the community.
"Officer Kevin Cram died a hero, protecting his community and upholding the rule of law. Kevin and I are praying for his family, the Algona Police Department, and all the law enforcement officers in Kossuth County," said Reynolds.
"As flags are lowered across the state, Iowans honor Officer Cram’s legacy and stand united with his brothers and sisters in uniform. We will never forget his service and sacrifice," the governor added.
