By Police1 Staff
RUFE, Okla. — A sheriff’s deputy and a police officer were shot Thursday by a suspect who was then killed by police.
According to Tulsa World, officers responded to a call of a man shooting at neighbors. A shootout ensued as the officers approached 51-year-old Joseph Potts’ home.
Potts opened fire from inside the residence, striking the sheriff’s deputy and the officer. He then set fire to his own home, exited the residence and attempted to grab an officer’s gun. The suspect was shot in the ensuing stuggle.
The suspect died at the scene. The officers shot were identified as Sgt. Steve Babcock and Deputy Jeff Eppley. Both were transported to a hospital, according to KTEN.
KXII reports Babcock is in critical, but stable condition. Eppley was treated for non-life-threatening injuries. Both are expected to fully recover.
Potts, who reportedly opened fire with a semi-automatic rifle, had a lengthy criminal history. Officials are investigating the shooting.