Two Georgia police officers were hospitalized Thursday following a shootout during a domestic violence call in a shopping center parking lot that left an armed suspect critically wounded.

Gainesville police responded to a report of a domestic disturbance between a man and woman in the back of the New Holland Market shopping center, the department stated in a social media post. The man allegedly began shooting at police as they arrived at the scene, and at least one officer returned fire, WANF-TV reports.

The suspect was struck in the exchange, and he was taken to the hospial in critical condition. Two officers also were taken to the hospital for evaluation.

“They are doing well physically," Capt. Kevin Holbrook said during a a briefing. "Unfortunately, I can’t say they’re doing the same mentally."

According to Holbrook, officers had heard gunfire as they reached the scene, and it's thought that the suspect had began shooting before police arrived.  

"These officers did encounter a dangerous situation today," Holbrook said. "In doing so probably saved this woman’s life."

The shooting is under investigation.