DETROIT – UPDATE: Police Chief James Craig says the officer is out of surgery and doctors are currently treating swelling in his brain.
A 14-year veteran police officer is in "very critical condition" after he was shot in the back of the head Sunday night, the Detroit Police Department said.
Two officers were responding to reports of gunfire and a possible domestic violence incident -- involving a man allegedly assaulting his girlfriend -- in the 10000 block of Joy Road, police said.
When the officers were responding to the call, a gunman unrelated to the domestic situation opened the door and started shooting, Chief James Craig said.
The injured officer and his partner returned fire, killing the suspect, police said.
The officer’s partner has only been on the force for six months, officers said.
The injured officer was taken to Oakwood Hospital in Dearborn, where at last check, he remained in surgery.
It appears the deceased shooter was not responsible for the domestic violence call, officers said. Police are still investigating his connection.
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