Los Angeles: On October 7, 2004, at approximately 7:45 p.m., Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) uniformed police officers assigned to the Wilshire Division gang detail were involved in pursuit resulting in an exchange of gunfire.

Officers observed a gray compact Chevrolet commit multiple traffic violations in the vicinity of Crenshaw Boulevard and 23rd Street. The officers activated their police vehicle’s emergency lights in an attempt to stop the violator. The vehicle sped off westbound on 21st Street. The officers went into a vehicular pursuit that circled the block between 7th Avenue and 8th Avenue, and Washington Boulevard and 21st Street. The Chevrolet collided with a parked car at the corner of 21st Street and 8th Avenue. The vehicle’s lone occupant, a black male adult, exited the driver’s door and immediately began shooting in the direction of the officers. The suspect utilized two semiautomatic handguns to fire numerous shots at the officers. During the exchange of gunfire the suspect was struck several times and was taken into custody. He was transported to an area hospital where he underwent emergency surgery. His condition is listed as critical.

One bullet pierced a car door and struck Police Officer Matthew McNulty’ s Sam Browne equipment belt. Fortunately, the officer was not seriously injured and was examined and released from the hospital. A female relative of the suspect was in the immediate vicinity during the exchange of gunfire and also received a through-and-through gunshot wound to the leg. She was treated at a local hospital and released. Three police cars were also hit.

Pending his recovery, the suspect will face numerous felony charges including eight counts of Attempted Murder of a Police Officer.

At this time the suspect’s motivation for the attacking the officers is unknown. The investigation is continuing.

This incident is being investigated by the Force Investigation Division at 213-485-6475. On weekends and during off-hours, call the 24-hour toll free number at the Detective Information Desk, at 1-877-LAWFULL (1-877-529-3855).

This news release was prepared by the Los Angeles Police Department’s Media Relations Section, at 213-485-3586.