Omaha Police Chief Todd Schmaderer and Mayor Jean Stothert issued statements on the ambush-style murders of two Des Moines area police officers early Wednesday morning.
Chief Schmaderer wrote: "On behalf of the Omaha Police Department, I offer our condolences to the families of the fallen officers, their agencies, and the communities they serve. The homicides of the Des Moines and Urbandale, Iowa officers is an affront to all of society. Law Enforcement has been on high alert since the ambush-style killings and the suspect's arrest is the result of the collective efforts of brave officers. Law enforcement remains a challenging profession and yet, we are committed to serving and protecting our communities despite the inherent dangers. Thank you to the Omaha community for your unwavering support of the Omaha Police Department and its officers during times of need and for your willingness to create strong partnerships to move Omaha forward."
Mayor Stothert wrote: "The people of Omaha send our condolences to the families of the police officers killed overnight in Des Moines and the citizens they so bravely served every day. This is another reminder that our police officers have difficult and dangerous jobs. They risk their own lives to protect our families and our neighborhoods. These tragedies bring communities together in ways we hope never happen, but sadly do. Those who choose careers in public service and safety certainly deserve our respect and gratitude. Our thoughts and prayers are with the Des Moines and Urbandale Police Departments as they mourn their fellow officers and friends."
Des Moines Police say Scott Michael Greene flagged down an Iowa Department of Natural Resources officer Wednesday morning in rural Dallas County west of Des Moines and surrendered. He was taken into custody and is now being treated at a Des Moines hospital. Greene is suspected of shooting and killing Urbandale officer Justin Martin and Des Moines police sergeant Antony Beminio. Martin was single and joined the force in 2015. Beminio was married with children and joined the force in 2005.
