Holly MatkinSan Jose, CA – A San Jose police officer was shot by a gunman who allegedly opened fire on police at two separate locations on Friday night.
The incident began at approximately 10:29 p.m. on Feb. 3, after police pulled a driver over near the intersection of Story Road and King Road, KTVU reported.
Investigators said the suspect bailed out of the vehicle and opened fire on the officers, hitting their patrol car multiple times.
He then jumped back behind the wheel as the officers returned fire, hitting his vehicle as he sped off, KTVU reported.
Neither of the officers were wounded in the attack, KABC reported.
Photos from the scene showed the patrol vehicle riddled with bullet holes – including several that traveled through the windshield.
6/ Patrol vehicle with multiple bullet strikes from suspect’s firearm. pic.twitter.com/wX8Cp3Sp85
— San José Police Media Relations (@SJPD_PIO) February 4, 2023
Investigators tracked the suspect vehicle down at a home on Sinbad Avenue and the San Jose Police Department’s (SJPD) Mobile Emergency Response Group and Equipment (MERGE) Unit was activated to apprehend him.
When officers spotted the gunman in the backyard of the residence, he allegedly opened fire on them, KABC reported.
One of the officers was struck in the leg by gunfire.
The wounded officer was rushed to a local hospital and is expected to recover.
The officer’s identity was not immediately released.
Police did not return fire after the officer was hit, according to KRON.
Investigators said the suspect subsequently surrendered and was taken into custody, KABC reported.
His identity was not immediately released.
SJPD Officer Steve Aponte said the gunman is expected to face multiple charges, including attempted homicide of a police officer.
“This is a very dynamic and ongoing investigation and we will be providing updates as they become available,” Officer Aponte said.
San Jose Mayor Matt Mahan released a statement on Saturday commending the police force and their service to the community.
Praying for the quick recovery of our MERGE officer shot in the line of duty last night. We are thankful for the bravery of our @SanJosePD officers every day – but today we are reminded once again of the courage it takes to put the safety of our residents above their own. https://t.co/uYpGQNT4zq
— Mayor Matt Mahan (@MattMahanSJ) February 4, 2023
“Praying for the quick recovery of our MERGE officer shot in the line of duty last night. We are thankful for the bravery of our @SanJosePD officers every day – but today we are reminded once again of the courage it takes to put the safety of our residents above their own,” Mahan tweeted.
