A veteran US Park Police officer was ambushed and shot by two gunmen while working undercover in Southeast Washington, DC, on Monday evening. Authorities confirmed that the suspects remain on the run.
Shooting Incident
Around 7:30 p.m., the officer, whose identity has not yet been released, was targeted while driving a Tesla as part of an undercover investigation near Queens Stroll Place. US Park Police Chief Scott Brecht confirmed that the officer was ambushed by at least two gunmen.
“The officer was struck in the upper body during the gunfire but continued to drive up the road, where first aid was administered,” Chief Brecht explained during a press conference.
Officer’s Condition
The officer, described as a veteran of the department, was airlifted by a police helicopter to a local hospital. Fortunately, his injuries were reported to be non-life-threatening.
“This is an example of unnecessary gun violence in our city. There is no reason that anybody — a police officer or not — should be shot just for driving through the neighborhood,” said Metropolitan Police Chief Jeffery Carroll.
Investigation Details
Authorities believe that the gunmen may have known they were targeting a police officer, even though he was driving an unmarked vehicle. However, the specifics remain unclear, as no words were exchanged between the officer and the suspects before the shooting.
Suspects Description
The suspects are described as two black men:
- One wearing a white hoodie and blue jeans.
- The other in an all-black outfit with white stripes down the sleeves and pant legs.
The FBI is assisting local law enforcement in the investigation. FBI Director Kash Patel posted on X (formerly Twitter), expressing support for the investigation and vowing to bring the perpetrators to justice.
Political and Law Enforcement Reactions
US Attorney General Pamela Bondi also expressed concern, stating that she had spoken with DC Mayor Muriel Bowser and Chief Jeffery Carroll and was briefed on the shooting.
Authorities have warned local residents to expect a heavy police presence in the area while the investigation continues.
