SANTA CRUZ, Calif- New information released during the news conference held Thursday morning as the investigation into the killing of two Santa Cruz police officers develops. Sheriff Phil Wowak said in the press conference that the officers had no reason to believe that Jeremy Goulet was violent or had violent intentions.
Wowak said both detectives, Loran "Butch" Baker and Elizabeth Butler, spoke with the suspect for 20 minutes before Goulet opened fire, with a .45 caliber gun, and killing the detectives. The handgun was registered to Goulet.
During the investigation, it is now known that the detectives were not wearing body armor, however, Sheriff Wowak said body armor would not have helped.
After the shooting, Goulet disarmed both officers and fled in Detective Baker's car where he encountered a team of detectives and fire fighters. Goulet was forced into an alley off of Doyle Street.
Goulet encountered six officers and began firing with both his handgun and one weapon taken from the officers. Four out of the six officers, 3 Santa Cruz City Police officers and 1 Santa Cruz deputy, returned fire and killed Goulet.
Investigators have uncovered that Goulet was in possession of his own passport and an airline ticket to New Mexico.
A press conference is scheduled by Chief Vogel for 3:00 this afternoon to discuss the memorial services for both fallen officers. At this time, Santa Cruz Sheriff and California Highway Patrol are still patrolling the city of Santa Cruz. Chief Vogel is expected to announce when city officers will return to duty.
