ROCHESTER, NY – Three police officers were hospitalized with gunshot wounds Friday night after a suspect opened fire on them “without warning” while they responded to a domestic violence call, leaving one officer in critical condition and the gunman dead.
The chaotic scene unfolded when Rochester police officers arrived at a residence to investigate reports of domestic violence. Upon making contact with the suspect, multiple shots rang out before officers could take cover.
Police Chief David Smith confirmed that the shooter fired on officers almost immediately after they arrived. “Multiple shots were fired” during the encounter, Smith told reporters at a late-night press conference.
The three wounded officers were rushed to local hospitals. One remains in critical condition, a second is listed in serious condition, and the third suffered less severe injuries. All three are expected to survive.
Officers returned fire during the gun battle, fatally striking the suspect. One additional male was also wounded during the incident, though authorities have not clarified whether he was involved in the initial domestic dispute or how he sustained his injuries.
Rochester Mayor Malik Evans expressed the fear that haunts every law enforcement family during the holiday season. “This is always our biggest nightmare during this time of the year, these type of instances,” Evans said. He asked the community to keep the wounded officers and their families in their prayers.
The names of the officers and the deceased suspect have not been released. The investigation is being handled by the New York State Attorney General’s Office, which reviews all police-involved shootings resulting in death.
The incident marks another reminder of the dangers officers face when responding to domestic violence calls, which remain among the most volatile situations in law enforcement.
