Suspect in Wash. police officer shooting arrested

MOUNT VERNON, Wash. — A police officer here was shot and seriously wounded Thursday evening. The suspect was arrested after officials said he barricaded himself inside a home and possibly took hostages.

Police officers responded to a call about 5:30 p.m. that a man had been shot on North LaVenture Road and East Fir Street. When the officers arrived, they approached a residence, and the suspect began shooting at the officers.

A 61-year-old male officer was shot in the head and taken to Harborview Medical Center. The Washington State Patrol said he was in a serious but stable condition after surgery.

Earlier, officers said the suspect was barricaded inside a home, and they believed he had one hostage with him, although it could be more. Police said hostage negotiators were in contact with the suspect.

"It’s a very dynamic situation," said Washington State Patrol Sgt. Mark Francis.

Police said the suspect is "a violent offender and well known to law enforcement." He fired shots at a SWAT vehicle outside the home throughout the evening.

Police say they did not know the suspect's motive.

The officer is a 30-year veteran of the police force. Friends said he is dedicated to the force and loves his job.

The officer is married, has two grown sons and a daughter, and is a grandfather. He also serves his community as a Boy Scout leader.

Francis said there were so many law enforcement agencies assisting with the investigation, you "couldn't name them all." There was also a widespread community response to the shooting, showing support.