David Stefan Hofer, a 29-year-old male police officer of European descent, tragically died on March 1, 2016, in Euless, Texas. Officer Hofer was shot and killed while responding to a report of suspicious activity at J.A. Carr Park. As he and his partner approached the park, they were ambushed by gunfire. Officer Hofer was mortally wounded and later succumbed to his injuries at Baylor Scott & White Medical Center.
The suspect, identified as 22-year-old Jorge Gonzalez, had a long criminal
history and was known to Euless police. On the day of the incident, Gonzalez had been released from detention for public intoxication and subsequently broke into a home near Carr Park, stealing several weapons. He then lured police officers into an ambush at the park. During the shootout, Gonzalez was killed by return fire from Officer Hofer's partner.
The incident led to a thorough investigation by Euless police, who determined that Gonzalez had planned the ambush to kill as many officers as possible. The case highlighted the dangers faced by law enforcement officers and the need for vigilance in responding to suspicious activities.
Officer Hofer, who had served with the Euless Police Department for two years and previously with the New York City Police Department for five years, was remembered for his dedication, generosity, and ability to make anyone laugh. He is survived by his fiancée, Marta Danylyk, his parents, Helmut and Sonja Hofer, his sister, Meret Hofer, his brother, Boris Brawer, and his grandmother, Trude Hofer.
The tragic death of Officer David Stefan Hofer serves as a somber reminder of the risks law enforcement officers face daily and the ultimate sacrifice they make to keep their communities safe.
