'I'm hit': BWC released in OIS of suspect who shot and wounded Mich. officer

KALAMAZOO, Mich. -- A Kalamazoo Township police officer is currently in stable condition, while a domestic violence suspect is critically injured following a shooting outside a school administration building on Thursday afternoon. The incident began when officers responded to a report of domestic violence involving a 23-year-old Portage man, who allegedly threatened his girlfriend with a firearm.

The suspect fled the scene and was eventually tracked to the 1200 block of Howard Street behind the Kalamazoo Public Schools administration building. According to Police Chief Bryan Ergang, officers gave the suspect several verbal commands to stop, but he attempted to escape on foot. During the pursuit, he turned and fired a weapon, striking a Kalamazoo Township police officer in the leg.

An officer from Western Michigan University, who was following the township officer, returned fire. Both the injured officer and the suspect were administered first aid at the scene before being transported to a local hospital. The specifics of how many shots were fired by the WMU officer remain undisclosed, and both officers have been placed on leave while the Michigan State Police conduct their investigation.

At a press conference, Chief Ergang emphasized the seriousness of the situation, noting that the suspect has a history of criminal activity and had been out on parole since April 2024. Fortunately, the public was not endangered during the incident, as the suspect did not enter the school building, prompting officials to initiate a lockdown as a precaution.

Reflecting on the incident, Chief Ergang expressed concern for the injured officer, describing him as a good friend and an integral member of the community. He highlighted the dangers faced by law enforcement officers while also reassuring the public that his team remains committed to ensuring safety within the community.