The Dallas Police Department said one of its officers was shot and injured while responding to a burglary in Lake Highlands on Monday, November 8.
The sergeant responded to a burglary call at about 1:00 am at an apartment complex in the 9800 block of Audelia Road, near Walnut Hill Lane.
Dallas Police Chief Eddie García said the officer confronted a man who was allegedly banging on the front door of an apartment. Garcia said the man opened fire and struck the officer in the hand he used to hold his gun. Police said the man shot four times at the officer.
According to police, officers arrested Roberto J. Morfin, 25, in connection with the shooting. Dallas police said another officer at the scene gave chase to Morfin, and Mesquite, Garland, and Richardson police all assisted in apprehending the suspect. The 25-year-old was taken to Dallas police headquarters for questioning and is now facing a charge of aggravated assault of a public servant.
At a Dallas public safety meeting held on Monday, Chief Garcia revealed that the officer was able to fire one shot but did not say if the officer’s bullet hit the man.
The officer, whose identity was not released, was taken to the hospital in stable condition. However, Garcia, who visited the officer in the hospital, said his wound was serious, and he may have to undergo surgery. Garcia also added that the officer’s hand had bone damage.
Garcia also revealed that the officer was in good spirits after the shooting. Garcia described the officers as a “very brave individual” and said the shooting would not be the end of the officer.
“He did an unbelievable job, and we’re very proud of him,” Garcia said.
Chief Garcia added that the incident is a reminder of the kind of danger police officers face every day. Garcia said the department is fortunate not to lose one of its own.