A Baltimore police officer was wounded and a suspect killed Tuesday in a shooting near a synagogue during what authorities described as a failed burglary attempt and a barricade situation in the northwest section of the city.
The shooting occurred about 12:30 p.m. in a residence in the 6200 block of Park Heights Avenue near the Agudath Israel of Baltimore synagogue, the Baltimore Police Department said. It was not clear if synagogue services were being conducted at the time of the shooting.
Mayor Brandon Scott said police were responding to a barricade situation at the residence when the officer was shot.
But Police Commissioner Richard Worley said a burglary was in progress in the home and that the suspect was related to people inside. A SWAT sniper shot the suspect, he added.
The wounded officer was taken to the R Adams Cowley Shock Trauma Center at the University of Maryland, officials said. The officer’s condition was not disclosed, but authorities said the wounds were not life-threatening.
Authorities urged people to avoid the neighborhood and the surrounding area as they investigate the “active shooter incident.”
The Independent Investigations Division of the Maryland Attorney General’s Office said it was responding to the scene.
Mr. Scott said he went to the hospital where the injured officer was transported.
“The brave men and women of BPD put their lives on the line every day to build a better, safer Baltimore,” the mayor posted on social media. “As the situation develops, our hearts are with this officer, their family, and the entire department.”
The Baltimore City Fraternal Order of Police said it is “aware of the police involved shooting,” adding that “all involved members are in good spirits.”
Rep. Andy Harris, a Republican who represents parts of Baltimore County, offered his support for the injured officer.
“Please join me in praying for the Baltimore police officer injured in the line of duty earlier today and for his family. Our law enforcement officers put their lives on the line every day to protect our communities, and I am grateful for their courage and sacrifice,” Mr. Harris posted social media.
