Colorado Springs officer seriously injured in shooting; suspect in critical condition

A police officer was seriously wounded after a suspect opened fire on officers in Colorado Springs, according to authorities. The suspect was shot by police and remains in critical condition.

The shooting occurred around 1:30 p.m. Monday near East Bijou Street and Balfour Ave. in Colorado Springs, according to the Colorado Springs Police Department.

Police said a CSPD tactical team and the Colorado Parole Fugitive Apprehension Unit had been conducting an unrelated operation in the area when officers later attempted to contact an unknown man acting suspiciously.

Police said the man fled from officers and then produced a handgun and fired, striking one officer. Two CSPD officers returned fire, striking the suspect at least once.

Emergency medical aid was provided to both the officer and the suspect before they were transported to an area hospital. The injured officer, identified only as a male, sustained serious but non-life-threatening injuries, while the suspect remains in critical condition.

Police said at least one firearm was recovered at the scene. Authorities have not released the identities of the officer or the suspect.

CSPD said investigators believe the shooting was an isolated incident and that there is no ongoing threat to the public. The El Paso County Sheriff’s Office will take over the investigation.

Police asked anyone who witnessed the incident or has information to contact the Colorado Springs Police Department’s non-emergency line at 719-444-7000.