DALLAS, Texas – A Dallas police dispatcher is being hailed as a hero for recognizing the subtle sounds of his police radio during the shooting death of Officer Daron Burks, leading to a quick response.
Owen Larsen, who joined the Dallas Police Department last year, was working in the command room on Aug. 29 when he noticed an unusual “rumbling” sound coming from Burks’ radio. Trusting his instincts, Larsen directed officers to locate Burks in Oak Cliff, where he found the officer shot inside his patrol car.
The gunman, a former school teacher, fled the scene and a massive manhunt began, ending in Louisville. Police cornered the suspect, who was shot and killed after firing at officers.
Larsen coordinated the emergency response, directed officers to Berks, and organized efforts to track down the suspect. Even though his shift ended at 10:30 p.m., Larsen continued working to ensure the situation was resolved, handling additional high-priority calls, and preparing the hospital for incoming patients. I delegated the task of organizing.
Dallas Police Chief Eddie Garcia praised the dispatchers’ actions, calling them a “brave and honorable job.”
The department credits the new Project 25 radio system, installed last year, with helping Larsen quickly locate Burks and respond in time. The updated system provides enhanced officer location data and enables communication across multiple agencies.
For Larsen, the events of that night remain a heavy burden. He described the aftermath as a “strange slowdown” and appealed to the ministry’s health department for assistance. “I get tired thinking about that night,” Larsen told The Dallas Morning News.
Two officers sent by Larsen to check on Burks, Jamie Farmer and Carissa David, were also injured in the incident. David was shot in the face and is now blind in both eyes. Mr. Farmer is recovering from his injuries. Mr. Larsen remains in contact with both officers.
“It’s a strange feeling,” he said. “I know what should happen and I just do it.”
Birx was honored at a candlelight vigil and funeral in early September, attended by colleagues and community members.
