PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) — A suspect was taken into custody after exchanging gunfire with Keizer police and leading them on a car chase — fatally striking a pedestrian in the process.
At 8:40 p.m. on Wednesday, Keizer police responded to reports of a suspicious vehicle behind a business at the corner of River Road and Dearborn Road. When officers arrived, they confronted two adult men near the car, which was determined to be stolen.
Once officers approached, one of the men exchanged shots with multiple officers. He then fled the scene in the stolen car. Officials say the other man stayed on the scene and was cooperative.
Meanwhile, the fleeing suspect was heading southbound on River Road. As he was roaring through the River Road and Cummings Lane intersection, the driver struck a pedestrian who was crossing the street.
Sadly, the pedestrian suffered fatal injuries and was pronounced dead. Their identity has not been released at this time.
A short time later, Keizer and Salem police officers were able to stop the suspect near Cherry Avenue and Salem Parkway. A standoff ensued — but the man ultimately surrendered and was taken into custody.
He was then taken to the hospital to treat multiple gunshot wounds. There is no word on his current condition.
A total of six Keizer officers were involved in the shooting and have been placed on administrative leave, per standard protocol. Keizer Police Department has not released any of their names.
The Oregon State Police will lead the investigation into the shooting and the pedestrian fatality.
This is a developing story.