A New York City Police Department officer wounded a suspect on Sunday while trying to prevent the escape of a driver in a reportedly stolen vehicle, officials stated.
The vehicle, a silver Kia Sportage, was reported stolen from the Bronx. Using license plate readers, police tracked its movement until locating it as it traveled down West Fordham Road.
Upon spotting the vehicle, officers attempted to initiate a traffic stop, repeatedly instructing both the driver and passenger to exit the car.
Police conducted an investigation at the scene in the Bronx following a police-involved shooting. (WNYW)
In an effort to escape, the driver allegedly reversed, colliding with several officers and an unmarked police car, proceeded to move forward, and hit another officer.
“As members of the NYPD were around the car, the driver of the stolen vehicle put the car into reverse, hitting one member, hitting one of the unmarked vehicles, and ultimately hitting … multiple members of the NYPD. He then put the Kia into drive and turned the wheels of the Kia to the right, where Sergeant was standing. He drove the car into the sergeant who was thrown to the ground,” said Aneudy Castillo, assistant chief and commanding officer of Patrol Borough Bronx North.
The driver allegedly reversed the car and struck multiple officers and an unmarked police vehicle before driving forward and hitting another cop. (WNYW)
As the driver continued attempting to leave the area, an officer on top of a nearby vehicle opened fire and struck the driver.
The driver was transported to Saint Barnabas Hospital in stable condition. The cops involved in the incident were also taken to local hospitals in stable condition.
The driver and the police injured in the incident were taken to local hospitals in stable condition. (WNYW)
Charges against the driver of the stolen vehicle are pending.
The incident was captured on body-worn camera footage and remains under investigation.
The suspect who was driving the stolen vehicle was arrested in February for shooting another man, police said. He was charged with multiple felonies, including attempted felony assault, reckless endangerment and criminal possession of a firearm.