Worcester Mourns Police Officer Kurt Solomon, Search Underway For Suspect

WORCESTER, MA — The Worcester community is mourning the loss of a local police officer this week amid an ongoing investigation into his death.

Officer Kurt Solomon, a 31-year veteran of the Worcester Police Department, has died, according to the New England Police Benevolent Association. His death is connected to an ongoing search for 58-year-old Karen Solomon, who authorities consider "armed and dangerous."

• See Also: Off-Duty Worcester Police Officer Found Dead, Woman Sought

Subscribe

"Officer Solomon dedicated more than three decades of his life to serving the City of Worcester," the NEPBA wrote in a Tuesday announcement. "Throughout his distinguished career, he earned the respect of those who served alongside him and was known as an incredibly dependable officer, colleague and friend."

The organization said it has full confidence in the ongoing investigation.

"We ask that the public respect the investigative process and keep Kurt's family, friends and fellow officers in their thoughts during the difficult days ahead."

The NEPBA said its thoughts are especially with Solomon's sons, Niklas and Brandon; his mother, Shirley; his brothers, Karl and Eric; and all those who knew and loved him as they navigate the loss.

"Thirty-one years of service represents an extraordinary commitment to a community and to the profession of law enforcement," the organization wrote. "Officer Kurt Solomon answered that call for more than three decades, and his service, friendship and dedication will not be forgotten."

Ongoing Investigation In Worcester

The search for Karen Solomon was still underway as of Wednesday morning.

This comes after Worcester police responded to a residence at about 5:28 a.m. on Tuesday for a report of a person down, Worcester Police Chief Paul Saucier said during a press conference. The deceased man was later identified as the Worcester police officer, who was off-duty at the time, officials said.

Chief Saucier said Karen Solomon is presumed to be "armed and dangerous." Anyone who sees her should not approach her and should call Worcester police at (508) 799-8606 or 911.

She is described as white with dark brown hair and brown eyes. She was last seen wearing pajama shorts and a tank top.

Karen Solomon and Kurt Solomon are married, according to multiple reports.

Numerous agencies are assisting with the search, including U.S. Customs and Border Protection, several Massachusetts State Police units and all available Worcester Police Department resources, Worcester County District Attorney Joseph D. Early said during the press conference.

This is a developing story; check back for updates.