LAKE ISABELLA, Calif. -- The search continued Monday for the suspects wanted for shooting a California Highway Patrol officer, who has not been identified, twice late Sunday night.
The shooting happened right before 11 p.m.
Officials said an SUV pulled up next to the officer's patrol car and fired several times.
On Monday, agencies like the Kern County Sheriff''s Office and the FBI helped the CHP canvass the Kern River Valley to search for a vehicle that fled the scene of the shooting on the side of Highway 178.
"Whenever there is an incident like this, when an officer was needlessly shot, (it) definitely brings a feeling of wanting to go out there and aggressively search for these individuals because they did hurt one of our own," said Robert Rodriguez of the CHP.
Officials said the officer was parked on the side of the highway near Borel Road when a dark-colored SUV passed him and then made a U-turn. The vehicle crossed the double yellow lines and drove toward the patrol car. The officer used his lights to make his presence known, and that's when officials said the vehicle got even closer.
The driver's side passenger lowered his window and fired several times at the officer.
"The officer was struck in the hand and in the chest," said Rodriguez. "The officer drew a service weapon and fired multiple rounds at that vehicle, striking the vehicle."
The officer's injuries are considered minor. Officials said he was wearing a bulletproof vest. He has since been treated and released from Kern Medical Center.
While the officer is expected recover just fine, agencies all over the county are vowing to continue to search high and low to bring the suspects to justice.
"It's very important that the public know that we are out here risking our lives for the community," said Rodriguez. "We're going to do everything in our power to hopefully find these individuals today."
Authorities are looking for a mid-2000s-model car, possible GMC Yukon or Chevy Tahoe. The vehicle is also described as having oversize 24-inch chrome wheels and low-profile tires.
The SUV could also have bullet holes on the driver's side and possibly is missing a back window.
The driver of the vehicle is being described by authorities as a Hispanic male in his 20s, wearing a white cowboy hat and buttoned up shirt.
The suspected shooter is described as a Hispanic male in his 20s wearing a light-colored tank top.
Officials said if you see vehicle or the suspects, call 911. They said do not approach them as they are considered armed and dangerous.
Search Continues For Suspects Who Shot CHP Officer
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