A Lummi Nation police officer was shot multiple times while investigating a traffice incident early Monday in Whatcom County.
The officer was investigating a vehicle in a ditch when the driver opened fire before fleeing on foot.
The officer underwent surgery, and police are searching for the suspect.
A Washington state tribal police officer was shot multiple times while investigating a traffic incident early Monday, and authorities are searching for the alleged shooter.
The 37-year-old Lummi Nation police officer was wounded just before 1 a.m. following a traffic incident, the Whatcom County Sheriff's Office stated in a news release. A vehicle had driven off the road and into a ditch, and the officer investigated.
When the officer confronted the vehicle's driver, the suspect opened fire and struck the officer multiple times. The driver then fled on foot, and a search is ongoing.
The wounded officer was rushed to the hospital and underwent surgery. No details were released concerning the officer's condition or the nature of the injuries.
“Today, we faced a horrific incident that has deeply affected our community,” stated Whatcom County Sheriff Donnell “Tank” Tanksley said in a statement. “A brave Lummi Nation Police Officer was shot while performing their duty to protect and serve. …
"I want to emphasize our unwavering support for the officer and their family during this difficult time," he added. "We are working diligently to investigate this incident to help ensure that justice is served."
Joining Endeavor Business Media in 2018, Joe has worked on the company's city services publications. He began working at OFFICER.com as the assistant editor. Before starting at Endeavor, Joe had worked for a variety of print and online news outlets, including the Indianapolis Star, the South Bend Tribune, Reddit and Patch.com.
