Detroit Cop Shot, Condition Deteriorating From 'Very Critical,' Chief Hails Him As A Hero
DETROIT (WWJ) - A Detroit police officer is in critical condition after being shot in the head while responding to a call Sunday about a domestic dispute in the 10,000 block of Joy Road on the city's west side.
Police Chief James Craig told WWJ that the officer is out of surgery and he continues to be listed in "very critical condition."
At a press conference Monday morning, the chief added that the officer's condition had deteriorated this morning and will require additional surgery.
A somber Craig told the media the officer was shot while acting "heroically."
"At this point, he is critical and he needs our prayer," Mayor Mike Duggan added.
The incident began when police were called to an apartment complex on the city's west side on a report of a domestic violence situation.
Craig said the gunman, who did not appear to be part of any domestic situation, came out of his apartment with his gun drawn and shot the officer.
Craig says the injured officer and his partner returned fire killing the suspected gunman -- a black male - who has not been identified -- is not believed to be a party to the original call to police.
"Domestic violence calls tend to be the most dangerous," said Craig.
Craig says the officer who was shot is a 14-year veteran of the force -- his partner just out of the police academy six months ago.
"This has been too typical," said Craig. "Since September of last year -- we've had eight officers either shot or murdered in the line of duty - in the city of Detroit. It is certainly high risk - the work they do every day."
