Police officer wounded, suspect killed after shooting outside Atlantic City casino
ATLANTIC CITY, N.J. -- A police officer is in critical condition, and one suspect is dead after a shooting outside a casino in Atlantic City, New Jersey.
Gunfire broke out around 2:30 a.m. Saturday outside the Caesars Casino on the 2100-block of Pacific Avenue when officers were on routine patrol.
Two officers on patrol were exiting their vehicle to approach a group of individuals engaged in criminal activity, according to Diane Ruberton, the acting Atlantic County Prosecutor.
One officer was shot while exiting the patrol car.
Sgt. Kevin Fair of the Atlantic City police said, "They went to stop a group of individuals. I'm not quite sure why. At the time of their encounter one of the individuals shot and wounded one of our Atlantic City police officers."
Police say the second officer fired back, striking one of the suspects.
The suspects then fled in different directions, including the suspect that was hit.
That suspect was found about a block and a half away.
He had collapsed and died at the scene.
The injured officer was taken to Atlanticare Regional Medical Center for surgery.
The officer is listed in critical condition.
Officers in SWAT gear patrolled the area, and protected the scene with guns drawn.
Mayor Don Guardian said hundreds of officers responded to the scene.
"I'm also very grateful for all of the police officers we have scouring the city. And we are doing everything we can to provide safety for our residents and visitors," said Mayor Guardian.
Authorities say five suspects or persons of interest are still at large.
The NJ Cop Shot program has posted a reward of $20,000 leading to the arrest and conviction of the suspects responsible for shooting an Atlantic City Police Officer.
Anyone with information is asked to contact the Atlantic County Prosecutor's Office or Atlantic City police. A $20,000 reward is now being offered for information
