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Suspect Dead After Shooting Three Officers, Killing A State Trooper

Reported by: Rick Lord
Web Producer: Rick Lord
Also Contributing: Elizabeth Noreika
Reported: Aug. 28, 2012 8:45 PM EDT
Updated: Aug. 28, 2012 11:36 PM EDT

EYEWITNESS ONLINE WEBCAST VIDEO
C L I C K T O P L A Y Wallback , Clay County , West Virginia

One trooper is dead, one is in the hospital with severe injuries and a Roane County Deputy is injured and the suspect dead. A tow truck driver was also hurt in the incident.

A suspect accused of killing one trooper and seriously injuring another trooper and a Roane County Deputy is dead after being shot by officers following a brief chase.

Details are still being sorted out, but it appears as though the incident started at the Wallback exit Park 'N Ride. What we know is that a tow truck driver and two troopers were shot and that the suspect, believed to be a 22-year-old man from Oak Hill, took off in one of the victim's tow truck. He was originally spotted heading toward Clay on Route 36 in a red "King's" wrecker, but then a foot chase took place close enough to the original shooting scene that gunshots could be heard. After a chase, gunfire erupted between police and the suspect, and a third officer was shot, as well as the suspect.

Gov. Earl Ray Tomblin issued the following statement tonight:

"Early this evening several police officers were shot in the line of duty in Clay County. As we wait to hear from law enforcement and medical personnel on the conditions of these officers, Joanne and I hold them and their families in our prayers, and ask all West Virginians to join us. This tragedy reminds us of the sacrifices that our law enforcement officers make every day to keep us safe."


No word yet on the condition of any of the other victims, including the officers. Keep checking back to wchstv.com as we continue to update this developing story. And we will bring you the latest on Eyewitness News at 10 on Fox-11.