Bobby Shisler: Union identifies Deptford, N.J. officer who was shot

DEPTFORD, N.J. (CBS) -- Police union officials have identified the Deptford Township Police officer who was wounded in a shooting incident that left a suspect dead Friday.

The officer is Bobby Shisler, a 4-year veteran of the department, the New Jersey State Policemen's Benevolent Association said in a tweet Saturday. Shisler suffered "critical life-threatening injuries" after he was shot, the tweet said.

In pictures posted on the Deptford Police Department's Facebook page, he was described as a lifelong resident of the township and a tireless volunteer, seen taking part in activities with a kids' softball team. The officer was wounded on Doman Avenue in Deptford around 1 p.m. Friday.

"We don't know what happened or what triggered it, but it's very sad," Nick Moularakis said.

One neighbor who didn't want to show her face says the officer was chasing a gunman down the street.

"My husband was here when everything happened," the neighbor said. "He said he heard three gunshots."

The neighbor says the suspect appeared to have been already wounded when he collapsed right here on the dirt. She says he then got up, ran this way, shot the police officer, at which point the officer returned fire, hitting him. he collapsed right there, where an SUV is parked.

"My neighbor came outside and tried to help the cop," the neighbor said.

Surveillance video shows additional police and an ambulance arriving on the scene.

As for Officer Shisler, the New Jersey State Police Benevolent Association says three officers applied a tourniquet and rushed him to the hospital, where he underwent surgery and is now in stable condition.

"When it happens here to somebody you know or you went to school with," George Moularakis said. "It's devastating."

George and Nick Moularakis know the officer's family well and they're praying for his recovery.

The New Jersey Attorney General's Office is handling the investigation. The state attorney general's office said a Deptford officer was wounded in a shooting, they did not identify the officer.

Sources later told CBS News Philadelphia Shisler was out of surgery and recovering.

In a statement Friday night, Deptford Township police expressed "heartfelt thanks" to the law enforcement agencies that responded to the shooting and to the staff at Cooper.

"To the amazing personnel at Cooper University Hospital…..we are forever in your debt. The doctors, nursing staff, and support staff are the best in the business. Thank you for all you do!" the statement said.

In a statement Friday night, Deptford Township police expressed "heartfelt thanks" to the law enforcement agencies that responded to the shooting and to the staff at Cooper.

"To the amazing personnel at Cooper University Hospital…..we are forever in your debt. The doctors, nursing staff, and support staff are the best in the business. Thank you for all you do!" the statement said.

Authorities have not identified the gunman or said what initially led to the foot chase.

In:
• New Jersey
• Gloucester County
• Deptford