Hero That Stopped Cop Killer Mistakenly Shot by Police

Arvada, Colorado mourns as a case of mistaken identity cost a hero his life. Johnny Hurley, 40, sprung into action when gunshots rang out. Witnesses told police that Hurley saw suspect, Ronald Troyke, 59, moments after using a 12-gauge shotgun to murder officer Gordon Beesley.Troyke then returned to his vehicle to grab an AR-15 style rifle. That is when Hurley confronted him. The hero then fired several shots at Troyke, with his handgun, killing the suspect.[caption id="attachment_23554" align="alignnone" width="1024"]

Johnny Hurley (Left) Gordon Beesley (Right) Photo by: Denver7[/caption]Hurley then picked up the rifle, while possibly assessing the situation. Responding officers mistook Hurley for the gunman, and opened fire, fatally wounding Hurley.Police Chief Link Strate hailed Hurley as a hero, who prevented further bloodshed. Additionally saying, Hurley's death was "equally tragic" to the killing of officer Beesley. Strate also remarked, "Johnny's actions can only be described as decisive, courageous and effective in stopping further loss of life."A third-party is currently investigating the incident. Subsequently, the officer under investigation is on a paid administrative leave, pending the result of the investigation. Below is the Arvada Police Department video press release concerning the Olde Town active shooting:https://youtu.be/fBdEqXvtW_sTroyke had previously expressed hatred for police officers. A document written by Troyke outlined a harrowing plan to kill as many officers as possible. Furthermore saying, "We the people were never your enemy, but we are now" and "This is what you get, you are the people who are expendable."Security footage shows Troyke shooting officer Beesley in the back twice, before the officer could react.Stay tuned to American Grit for more news, stories and updates.