Georgia officer shot, killed during traffic stop, K-9 critically wounded, police say

A police officer in DeKalb County, Georgia, was fatally shot during a traffic stop Thursday, officials said.

The deadly incident occurred after the officer attempted to stop a vehicle. The operator got out of the car and ran, DeKalb County Police Chief James Conroy told reporters, according to Fox 5 Atlanta. A foot chase ultimately ensued, during which "the suspect produced a handgun and shot the officer," Conroy said.

The police chief confirmed that the officer had died as a result of the injuries.

"I have sad news to report this evening," Conroy said. "Tonight a DeKalb County police officer died in the line of duty serving the citizens of DeKalb County."

A K-9 unit was among the responders who later arrived at the scene, Conroy said. The suspect shot the K-9 after law enforcement located him behind a business, the police chief said.

"Several officers returned fire" on the suspect, who "received several gunshot wounds," Conroy said.

The suspect, described as an adult male in their 20s to 30s, also died, the police chief said.

Neither the officer, who Conroy said had been on the force for less than two years, or the suspect was immediately identified.

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