ATLANTA, Ga. (Atlanta News First) - A Roswell police officer was shot and killed Friday night, according to police.

The shooting incident happened at a shopping center at 1425 Market Blvd., police said.

Roswell police said officers responded to the scene around 7 p.m. in response to a call about a “suspicious person.” 24-year-old Jeremy Labonte found the suspect, identified by the Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI) as 23-year-old Edward Espinoza, in the parking lot near the ACE Pickleball Club.

According to police, Espinoza shot Labonte multiple times. Labonte was taken to the hospital, where he later died.

Espinoza was immediately taken into custody. He faces charges of murder, aggravated assault against a law enforcement officer and a weapons charge, Fulton County Jail records show.

In honor of the fallen officer, the police department has lowered its flags to half-staff at its law enforcement center.

The incident has prompted an outpouring of condolences from officials and other law enforcement departments.

MORE COVERAGE: Condolences pour in after Roswell officer shot, killed at shopping center

“Tonight, Marty, the girls, and I are praying for the loved ones of a Roswell Police Officer who was shot and killed in the line of duty,” Gov. Brian Kemp said in a statement. “We join them, his fellow Roswell PD, and all law enforcement in mourning this sudden and heartbreaking loss, and we ask all Georgians to join us in keeping them in your thoughts and prayers. We also ask that we remain mindful of the heavy sacrifices law enforcement and their families make to keep all of us safe each and every day. May this courageous man’s memory inspire all of us in the days, weeks, and years ahead.”

The GBI is investigating the shooting.

This is a developing story. Check back with Atlanta News First for updates.

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