A Florida police officer was shot with his own weapon Monday while guarding a hospitalized suspect accused of critically injuring an elderly couple in an attack the day before.

A 79-year-old man and a 74-year-old woman had responded to a burglary alarm notification at a building outside Daytona College just after 6:40 p.m., according to an Ormond Beach police news release. When the couple got to the building, they found a suspicious vehicle parked outside, as well as an unknown wallet, ID card and other unfamiliar items.

After the couple called 911 outside the building, the suspect got into the vehicle and struck the woman. He then got out of the vehicle and punched and kicked the couple repeatedly before fleeing the scene.

Once police and medics reached the scene, they rushed the couple to the hospital. The man and woman were both in critical condition.

A search for the suspect, later identified as Michael Hightower, ensued, and Ormond Beach police located him shortly after 7:30 p.m. He was questioned at the department and then taken to the hospital for evaluation.

While at the hospital just before 3:30 a.m. Monday, Hightower is accused of attacking an officer guarding him. He grabbed the officer's gun during the struggle and shot the officer in the leg.

Hightower was taken into custody following the shooting, and he faces two counts of attempted felony murder. 

The officer's injuries weren't considered life-threatening, and he's expected to recover.

“First and foremost, our thoughts are with the couple and our officer as they recover from this heinous incident,” Chief Jesse Godfrey said in a statement. “We are incredibly thankful for the swift response and assistance from our neighboring agencies. The Volusia Sherrif’s Office and Holly Hill Police Department were key in helping us locate and take the suspect into custody. We’re grateful for the assistance of the Daytona Beach Police Department as we work together to hold the suspect accountable.”

Ormond Beach police continue to investigate the attack on the elderly couple. Daytona Beach police are investigating the officer shooting, and Hightower is expected to face more charges.