A Milwaukee Police officer was fatally shot by a robbery suspect who also died at the scene early Tuesday, authorities said.
The officer was among others responding to reports of a robbery on the city's south side at around 1:15 a.m.
The 19-year-old suspect reportedly ignored law enforcement's command and tried to flee prompting the fallen officer to run after him and a shootout ensued.
The 37-year-old officer sustained mortal injuries and succumbed at a hospital. The suspect also died from a gunshot wound but it remains unclear whether it was self-inflicted or fired by the officer.
“Milwaukee, our hearts are heavy,” Milwaukee Police Chief Jeffrey Norman said at a press conference.
“Milwaukee Police Department hearts are heavy. My heart is heavy. The violence needs to stop!”
Norman added that the officer and suspect's identities won't be released pending the end of an investigation but noted that the officer was a four-year veteran of the force.
“One of our finest, who put n that uniform, put on that badge, went into work last night has paid the ultimate sacrifice for protecting our community. Milwaukee, we need your prayers, we need your support,” Norman said.
