2 Police Officers Shot, Suspect Dead After Exchange Of Gunfire: Police

A male suspect has been shot and killed, and two police officers were also shot, Rocky Hill police said.

At 11:07 p.m. Friday, police were "investigating illegal activity in the area of 9 Fales Street, Hartford, CT," police said.

During the investigation, a male suspect fled on foot. A Hartford police officer attempted to take the suspect into custody and, during the struggle, felt what appeared to be a firearm in the suspect’s waistband, police said.

The suspect was able to enter a vehicle and flee the area. Officers pursued the vehicle, which traveled through Hartford and continued south, police said.

The vehicle information was relayed to surrounding towns and was ultimately stopped in Webster Court in Newington, near the Rocky Hill town line, police said.

"At this time the suspect exited the vehicle and there was an exchange of gunfire," police said. "As a result, a Hartford Police Officer and a Rocky Hill Police Officer were struck by gunfire. The suspect was also struck by gunfire and was pronounced deceased on scene. A firearm was located on scene."

Both officers were transported to an area hospital, where they are currently listed in stable condition, police said. In an update, the Rocky Hill police officer has been released from the hospital.

Hartford police said officer Alex Diaz was released from the hospital after being shot in the line of duty.

"A Hartford native, member of Academy Class 22-1, and member of our Street Crimes Unit, Officer Diaz represents what it means to wear the Hartford Police uniform — courage, commitment, and an unwavering dedication to our city," Hartford police said.

"Officer Diaz and his fellow Street Crimes officers have worked tirelessly to remove numerous illegal firearms from our city streets, making Hartford safer for the residents they serve. That commitment to protecting this community is at the core of who Alex is as a police officer," Hartford police said.

"Last night, he put himself in harm’s way while serving this community. Today, we are grateful to see him heading home," Hartford police said. "We also extend our deepest gratitude to the Rocky Hill Police Department, whose officer was also struck by gunfire, as well as the surrounding police departments and law enforcement agencies who responded and stood beside us during an incredibly difficult night.

"To Officer Diaz’s Street Crimes teammates, every member of the Hartford Police Department, and the countless members of the public who have reached out, offered prayers, sent messages, and shown their support — thank you," Hartford police said. "The support shown for Alex, our officers, and the entire law enforcement community has meant more than words can express. Stay strong, Alex. Hartford stands with you."

The Inspector General’s Office is leading the investigation.

Today, Rep. John B. Larson (CT-01) issued the following statement after an officer-involved shooting:

"I am saddened to learn of the shooting that took place last night in Newington that tragically left one man dead and two officers injured. There must be a full and transparent investigation, and I am glad the state Inspector General has begun that process. I pray for the Hartford and Rocky Hill Police officers and wish them a speedy recovery. This is a reminder of the sacrifice our police officers make every day by putting their lives on the line to keep our communities safe. I will continue to monitor this incident as the facts come to light."

On behalf of the Senate Republican Caucus, Sen. Stephen Harding issued the following statement regarding the shooting in Newington that left one man dead and two police officers injured:

“Our thoughts are with these police officers, their families, and first responders everywhere. We wish them a full and swift recovery, and we thank law enforcement for all they do every day to protect our communities.”