Tenn. Suspect Shot After He Hit Cop With Car

March 9, 2011
An officer was involved in a shooting that happened around 8 p.m. Tuesday night.

East Nashville, Tenn. --

Police said an undercover officer bought crack cocaine from a man identified as Marquale Burke in the Wendy's parking lot on Gallatin Avenue as part of an undercover drug operation on Tuesday night.

Officers said they did not want to arrest him in a highly populated area, so they began following him.

Police say one officer followed in front and one followed behind the suspect.

Officer Aaron Cauthorn pulled into a driveway on Thomas Avenue in an attempt to let Burke pass by. The officer was unaware that he had actually pulled into the driveway of Burke's home.

Burke pulled in behind the officer, and the officer attempted to arrest him.

Officers say Burke then hit the officer with his car.

Cauthorn, in what he calls self defense, opened fire.

Burke then drove off and later crashed his car on a nearby street.

He was transported to Vanderbilt University Medical Center with one gunshot wound to each shoulder. His injuries are not believed to be life-threatening.

Police said he is a convicted felon and has previous drug charges and an aggravated assault charge on his record.

Cauthorn remained at the scene for quite some time, but police say he should be fine.

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