Police Officer From Delco Killed In Maryland Ambush

By Greg Hambrick, Deb Belt and Kara Seymour

A Delaware County native who was serving as a police officer in Maryland was shot and killed during a gunfight Sunday afternoon.

Jacai Colson, a Prince George's County Police officer and Boothwyn native, was fatally shot at the District III station in Landover, Md., according to Prince George's County Police. The bullet that killed Colson was likely fired by a fellow law officer.

Colson died Sunday in what is described by authorities as an ambush at the District III police station in Landover to subdue the gunman. The brothers involved in the attack are Malik Ford, 21 and Elijah Ford, 18 and Michael DeAndre Ford, 22.

All three suspects will be charged with second-degree murder, six counts of attempted first-degree murder, nine counts of use of a handgun in the commission of a felony and additional charges.

Colson, a four-year member of the department, graduated from from Chichester High School and would have celebrated his 29th birthday this week.

Prince George's County Police Chief Hank Stawinski said Monday evening it is possible the fatal bullet that ended the promising life of Officer Jacai Colson came from another police officer during the exchange of gunfire.

An emotional Stawinski denounced the brothers of the suspect for allegedly recording the gun battle rather than trying to warn passers-by or stop their brother, who intended to die in the shootout.

“It makes no sense. … I’m not certain at the end of this investigation that we’ll be able to explain why.” — Prince George's County Police Chief Hank Stawinski

Colson was assigned to the Narcotic Enforcement Division.

"I am shocked and saddened by the news this evening of the death of Prince George's County police officer Jacai Colson in the line of duty," Maryland Gov. Larry Hogan said in a statement. "The First Lady and I send our sincere prayers to the family and loved ones of Officer Colson, who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to his fellow citizens and community."

The governor ordered flags across Maryland to fly at half-staff.

Photo of Officer Jacai Colson, courtesy of Prince George's County Police