Alton, IL – An Alton police officer and his K9 partner were shot early Thursday morning during an apprehension attempt. The incident occurred at around 5:30 a.m. in the city, just outside St. Louis.
The officer was airlifted to a trauma center in St. Louis, where his condition remains unknown. The K9 officer’s status has not been released. According to Alton police, the suspect was shot by responding officers and is currently in custody.
The shooting unfolded during what police described as a tense confrontation. Officers attempted to apprehend a suspect, leading to the exchange of gunfire. The officer and his K9 were struck during the exchange.
Authorities have not released additional details about the suspect or the events leading up to the shooting. The incident remains under investigation, with law enforcement emphasizing their focus on the officer and K9’s recovery.