Pennsylvania State Trooper Shot During Traffic Stop
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NAZARETH, Pa. (KDKA/AP) - A Pennsylvania State Police corporal is in the hospital after being shot Tuesday morning during a traffic stop in the eastern part of the state.
State police say the corporal was shot around 11 a.m. on Route 33, near state Route 191, in Plainfield Township, Northampton County, about 65 miles north of Philadelphia. His name is not being released at this time.
"Right now, our guy is up there fighting for his life. He's a warrior," Capt. Richard D'Ambrosio, of Pennsylvania State Police, said of the wounded corporal. "He went through a heck of a fight out there along the side of the road. He has the will to live, and God willing, he is gonna pull through this."
The trooper was airlifted to Saint Luke's Hospital in Bethlehem and is being treated in the intensive care unit. He is listed in critical but stable condition.
"The thoughts of every Pennsylvania State Police employee are with our wounded member at this time," said Commissioner Tyree Blocker. "We remain grateful to the multitude of first responders and medical professionals who have provided care, and to all Pennsylvanians for their continued support."
Troop M reports one trooper shot during traffic stop on Rt. 191, Plainfield Twp., Northampton County. More information to come as available.
— PA State Police (@PAStatePolice) November 7, 2017
The trooper suffered three gunshot wounds during the DUI traffic stop on the side of the road. State police say the corporal and another trooper were placing the suspect under arrest, when he began to violently resist and went for his gun.
"The troopers were in a knockdown, drag-out fight on the side of the road, with vehicles speeding by them, and it got very, very violent," Capt. D'Ambrosio said. "Takes the weapon out and fires several shots at both of our troopers. one of our troopers was struck several times."
Gov. Tom Wolf tweeted that he is "praying for this trooper and their family."
Praying for this trooper and their family. My thoughts are with all of the @PAStatePolice. https://t.co/tuolQswz7P
— Governor Tom Wolf (@GovernorTomWolf) November 7, 2017
The suspect fled the scene in a blue Pontiac sedan and drove himself to Easton Hospital, where he was taken into police custody.
He is being treated for gunshot wounds.
(© Copyright 2017 CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved. The Associated Press contributed to this report.)