The Arizona Republic
FLAGSTAFF, Ariz. — A Flagstaff police officer was shot Monday while attempting to apprehend an armed suspect whom police had been trying to find for more than 36 hours.
The suspect was also shot. Police say Mark Steiger, 38, was wanted in the firing of a weapon Sunday in Flagstaff’s Cheshire neighborhood. Police spent hours searching the woods around the man’s home by air and on the ground.
Each time, the suspect eluded police. Monday afternoon, police located Steiger. Police say Steiger opened fire on the officers, drawing return fire.
The suspect was hit and transported to Flagstaff Medical Center. Police wouldn’t comment on his condition.
Police say Detective Todd Bishop was also transported to the Flagstaff hospital where he was listed in “stable” condition and expected to recover.
Officials say Bishop is a 10-year veteran of the Flagstaff Police Department and is a member of the tactical operations team.
At least two schools in the area were placed on lockdown Monday afternoon at the time of the shooting.
Copyright 2007 The Arizona Republic