At approximately 5:30 p.m., Fayetteville Police Officers were dispatched to the area of Stamper and McGougan Road, in reference to a suspicious activity regarding possible burglaries in progress in the area.
Officers were given a physical description of three suspects, as well as their direction of travel and last known location.
Upon arrival, an officer saw three individuals fitting the suspects' descriptions and approached them on the street. The officer attempted to identify the suspects, at which time the suspects advanced towards the officer in a threatening manner.
The suspects assaulted the officer by striking him about the face and chest, at which time the officer retreated to his patrol vehicle in an attempt to retrieve his police K-9.
Suspects continued to pursue the officer as he was en route to his vehicle and before the officer was able to release the K-9, one of the suspects kicked the door shut and the suspects continued to assault the officer.
During the assault, the K-9 was eventually able to exit the vehicle and began defending the officer. However, one of the suspects attacked the K-9, to include punching and kicking her in the ribs as the two other suspects continued to strike the officer.
During the attack, the officer made several warnings for them to back off. The suspects ignored the officer's verbal commands so the officer then withdraw his service weapon and fired it at one of the suspects, striking him in the leg. The suspect's injuries were not life threatening.
The officer sustained injuries about his face and upper body and is currently being treated. The K-9 was transported to a medical facility for treatment related to her wounds.
The suspect was transported to Cape Fear Valley for medical treatment regarding his injuries.
The other two suspects have been taken into custody.
The State Bureau Investigation (SBI) and the department's major crimes division are currently conducting a joint investigation regarding the incident. An administrative investigation will follow.
Consistent with departmental policy and procedure, the officer will be placed on administrative duty pending the outcome of the respective investigations.
In accordance with state personnel laws and SBI policy and procedure, we will not be disseminating any additional updates regarding this matter. Any questions regarding the status or nature of the investigation should be directed to the SBI.
