Two police officers in Detroit sustained injuries after being fired upon by an off-duty officer who had threatened to take his own life. This tragic incident culminated with the off-duty officer being shot and killed during the confrontation.

According to Police Chief James White, the situation unfolded after the officers responded to a 911 call on Monday afternoon. The off-duty officer, a 13-year veteran of the force, had been experiencing a mental health crisis and had recently returned to active duty after a period of absence related to a degenerative health issue. The officer’s name has not been disclosed to the public.

Upon the officers’ arrival, they encountered the 45-year-old off-duty officer, who was dressed in his uniform and firing a rifle into the air. Chief White stated that the responding officers recognized him as part of the department’s special response team. The situation escalated as the off-duty officer began to approach the vehicle that the responding officers were using for cover, during which he struck one officer in the leg and another in the thigh.

In response, one of the injured officers fired back, resulting in the off-duty officer’s death. Chief White emphasized that the officers, despite realizing the shooter was one of their own, had to prioritize safety and fulfill their duty to protect others.

Both wounded officers were reported to be in stable condition and receiving treatment at a local hospital on Monday night. The incident raises awareness regarding mental health issues within law enforcement and the need for continued support for officers facing such challenges.