Lance Storz Killed Three Cops and a K9 in Kentucky Shootout
In a shootout at the home of a “terrorist on a mission,” three Kentucky police officers and a police dog were killed, and at least four others were injured. An almost five-hour standoff ensued between Lance Storz, 49, and Prestonburg police after the latter had shown up at his door in rural Prestonburg with an arrest warrant for him following an alleged domestic violence incident.
Gunman Storz opened fire on two officers on Thursday night, striking them both, according to Kentucky State Police. Authorities have identified the deceased as Prestonburg Police Capt. Ralph Frasure, Deputy William Petry, K9 Nelson, and Canine Handler Jacob Chaffins.
Police say Storz barricaded himself and his wife and daughter inside their home and opened fire on responding officers as the situation quickly spiraled out of control. There were multiple agencies involved, including the state police, officers from neighboring counties, and a SWAT team when the deputies called for help.
Lance Storz is a “terrorist on a mission.”
When they arrived, they were met with pure hell.” Floyd County Sheriff John Hunt told the press that they had no chance. However, he said that deputies had yet to contact the suspected gunman.
The shooter “pretty much executed that plan almost to precision,” Hunt said, adding that it took several hours to determine where the gunman was shooting from. Lance Storz was an apparent terrorist. “He was nothing more than a terrorist on a mission,” the sheriff said.
On Friday morning, Floyd County Attorney Keith Bartley said, “These are human beings. It’s a reality for these people that their lives will never be the same again.”
WMDJ reports that the standoff ended with the suspect being arrested. There were no injuries to his family. However, carbon monoxide poisoning struck a deputy who sought refuge under a moving patrol car.
More than one police officer from various agencies was shot and taken to a nearby hospital. Local news sources estimate that anywhere from four to six officers were killed in the exchange of gunfire. On July 11, Pike County Jail inmate Storz is scheduled to appear in court.