Heroes Remembered: Officer Eric Estrada and Sergeant Lee Sorensen

Image courtesy Tremonton-Garland Police Department

At the funeral service for Officer Eric Estrada on August 28, Governor Spencer Cox quoted the Bible saying, “Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.” He added, “Officer Estrada lived that truth not just for friends, but for strangers."

This sentiment is true for both officers honored for their ultimate sacrifice last month, and we are reminded of the risk police officers take every day to protect our families. Officer Eric Estrada and Sergeant Lee Sorensen of the Tremonton-Garland Police Department were killed in the line of duty while responding to a domestic violence call on August 17.

Their deaths shook not only Box Elder County but also Cache Valley, where Officer Estrada lived and began his career.

Officer Eric Estrada, 31, is survived by his wife, Brittney, and their two young children, Cienna and Luka, who are Cache Valley residents. Born and raised in Logan, and a Mountain Crest High School graduate, Officer Estrada began his career with the Logan Police Department in 2017. He later took a job with the Box Elder County Sheriff ’s Office jail before transferring to the North Park Police Department as a detective. He joined the Tremonton Police Department earlier this year. Officer Estrada was known for his energy, contagious smile, and his love for connecting with the community.

Outside of work, he was a devoted husband and father who enjoyed CrossFit, coaching soccer, and time with his family.

Like Officer Estrada, Sergeant Sorensen’s legacy is one of devotion to both family and community.

Sergeant Lee Sorensen, 56, is survived by his wife, Lanette, and their children, Lacee and Landon (he was preceded in death by a daughter, Analise). His law enforcement career spanned 17 years, during which he was known as a steady and respected leader. He spent 16 years with the Garland Police Department and had recently been promoted to Sergeant. He was scheduled to be sworn into this role just days after his death. Sergeant Sorensen was known for his professionalism and quiet strength, along with his dedication to service especially through the Special Olympics and 4H programs. He had great empathy for families who lost loved ones, leading him to become the medical examiner investigator in Box Elder County. Earlier this year, Sergeant Sorensen was honored with the Tremonton Fire Department’s Distinguished Service Award, and he and his wife received Garland City’s Wheelon Award in 2020 for their lasting contributions to the community.

As we mourn the loss of Officer Estrada and Sergeant Sorensen, we are reminded of what it means to serve. Safety in our communities does not come by chance — it is protected daily by heroes willing to put themselves in harm’s way for others. Officers, firefighters, EMTs, dispatchers, and their families all carry that weight. Their sacrifice deserves our gratitude not only in moments of tragedy, but every day.

We at Cache Valley Family Magazine add our sincere thanks to the many acts of gratitude that have been shown in the weeks since this tragedy