WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. — A West Palm Beach police officer was shot early Tuesday morning while responding to an altercation inside a home, authorities confirmed. The officer was wearing a ballistic vest and is expected to recover.
Police identified the suspected gunman as 22-year-old Emmanuel Keevon Dachawn McRae, who is considered armed and dangerous. Authorities warn anyone who sees him not to approach and to call 911 immediately.
According to West Palm Beach Police Department spokesperson Rachel Leitao, officers responded to the 300 block of Baker Drive around 2 a.m.
“Responding officers came under gunfire from an individual inside the home. The officers did return fire,” West Palm Beach Police Chief Tony Araujo told reporters at the scene. “One officer was struck and taken to an area hospital. He’s currently in stable condition.”
Witnesses described the terrifying moments as the shooting unfolded.
“As soon as the other police came and walked out of the car, the guy -- whoever it was -- immediately started shooting at the police officers,” said Juanita Lenair, who lives nearby.
Bullets riddled an SUV and multiple homes, leaving neighbors in shock.
Juanita Lenair and her brother, Zachary Lenair, said they were shaken by the shooting.
“It was insane. I literally thought it was coming through our windows,” Juanita Lenair said. “So the person -- whoever it was next door from them down there -- started shooting at the police.”
Araujo confirmed at a news conference Tuesday afternoon that the officer was struck in his ballistic vest.
Authorities said they set up a perimeter around the home, which investigators later confirmed is a rental property with multiple units.
Crime scene technicians were seen placing evidence markers next to shell casings and gathering evidence inside.
Juanita Lenair described the exchange of gunfire she witnessed.
“As soon as the guy started shooting, you could see the police officers there immediately start shooting. Going pow, pow, pow,” she said.
As for the officer, Araujo said he has since been discharged from the hospital and is expected to be OK.
Investigators continue to search for McRae, urging anyone with information to call 911 immediately.
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