The Oregon State Police major crimes section is actively investigating an officer involved shooting at the request of the Polk County District Attorney’s Office- in accordance with SB111 protocols. On Saturday, September 30, at approximately 1:30 A.M., an Independence Police Officer initiated a traffic stop and the suspect vehicle fled. The pursuit ended after officers deployed spike strips, disabling the vehicle, and the suspect fled on foot. Law enforcement officers responded to the area and located the suspect as he attempted to flee the area in another vehicle. The suspect opened fire on responding officers, striking a Polk County Deputy and law enforcement officers discharged their weapons in response. As a result of the gunfire exchange, one suspect is deceased, another is injured, and the original suspect has been arrested. There is no reason to believe there is any danger to the public at this time. Due to the on-going investigation, further details are currently unavailable. All future releases will come from the Polk County District Attorney’s Office.
