Crime & Safety

UPDATE: Man Who Was Shot By Lakewood Police Officer Reportedly Dies

The man, identified as 35-year-old Michael Crawford, died, reports The News Tribune. He was shot after leading police on a chase and opening fire at officers.

UPDATE: 10:07 p.m., 12/11/12

The man whom Lakewood Police shot after he opened fire has reportedly died.

The News Tribune is reporting that the man was identified by the Pierce County Medical Examiner's Office as Michael Crawford, 35.

Find out what's happening in Lakewood-JBLMwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

Find out what's happening in Lakewood-JBLMwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

UPDATE: 11:17 p.m., 12/9/2012

Just got this update from Lakewood Police spokesman Chris Lawler regarding the incident:

Tonight, two officers riding together in a patrol car got into a pursuit of a suspected stolen car at Gravelly Lake Drive and Interstate 5 at approximately 9:49 p.m.

They chased the vehicle on northbound I-5 until it exited at Portland Avenue. The officers attempted a PIT manuever and the car was stopped. The suspect fired on our officers and our officers returned fire at approximately 9:55 p.m. The suspect was struck by gunfire and our officers were not hurt. Medical aid was called for the suspect, who was transported to an area hospital. It was initially reported that the suspect was believed to be deceased at the scene, but he was transported once medical aid arrived. The suspect's condition is unknown at this time.

Tacoma Police will be handling the investigation with the full cooperation of Lakewood PD.

The Lakewood officer, Lawler added, will be placed on administrative leave per standard procedure.

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ORIGINAL

Lakewood Police is reporting that there was an officer-involved shooting Sunday night.

Spokesman Chris Lawler issued the following statement:

I'm still getting details and have nothing to report just yet, except that our officers are fine.Β  It started out as a car chase and shots were fired on the Portland Avenue exit off I-5.Β  It's being reported that the suspect is deceased.

Patch will have more on this story as it develops.


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