By Sam Wood
Inquirer Staff Writer
WOODBURY, N.J. — A Woodbury police officer shot and wounded a man who brandished a .357 Magnum handgun at two officers yesterday morning, authorities said.
The wounded man, Earl Bernard Harris, 36, of Camden, was hit in the arm and pelvis. He was flown to Cooper University Hospital in Camden, where he was listed in critical but stable condition yesterday afternoon.
Gloucester County prosecutors charged Harris with aggravated assault, weapons offenses and other charges.
Harris’ nephew, a juvenile from Merchantville, was with him during the shooting, according to police. The nephew was charged with loitering for the purpose of obtaining drugs. He was released into his parents’ custody.
A Woodbury resident called police yesterday morning to report two suspicious men knocking on doors on Lafayette Street. Officials said the two suspects were looking for drugs, and one startled homeowner called 911.
The two officers dispatched to the area encountered Harris and his nephew in the parking lot of a nearby Dunkin’ Donuts, on Route 45, around 11:30 a.m.
One of the officers was getting out of the car when Harris brandished the gun, authorities said. The officer fired, hitting Harris twice.
Harris’ handgun, loaded with hollow-point bullets, was recovered at the scene.
The officer who fired is an 18-year veteran of the Woodbury police force. He will be placed on standard, paid administrative leave. Gloucester County officials did not identify him yesterday.
Harris remains under guard at Cooper. A judge set his bail at $100,000.
The prosecutor’s office is investigating the incident.
Copyright 2008 The Philadelphia Inquirer