An Indiana police officer was seriously wounded in a shooting during a traffic stop Wednesday.
The incident involving Richmond Police Officer Seara Burton happened at about 6:30 p.m. as she was responding to other officers requesting help during a traffic stop, WXIN-TV reports. During the stop, Burton's K-9 partner sniffed around a man on a moped and signaled that there could be the possible presence of drugs.
Officers began speaking with the man, who drew a gun and opened fire. Officers returned fire, hitting the man, who fled on foot. Police apprehended him after a short chase.
Burton, 26, was struck in the exchange. She was airlifted to a hospital in Dayton, where she underwent surgery.
“She is in very critical condition, fighting for her life,” said Richmond Police Chief Mike Britt. “Those of you who pray, I ask you to pray for her, because she can use it.”
Britt said the shooting had deeply affected the department. He called Burton, four-year veteran who was recently assigned to the K-9 unit, a "fine officer."
The suspect was taken to the hospital. Prosecutors were still determining charges.
