PORTLAND, Ore. (KATU) — A Portland police officer fatally shot an assault suspect in downtown Portland Thursday afternoon, a Portland Police Bureau spokesperson said.
The suspect was taken to hospital.
Two others, who sergeant. Kevin Allen, described as the suspect’s victim, was also taken to the hospital.
The conditions all three are in were not immediately known.
Police were called to Southwest Alder Street near Broadway around 4:30 p.m., Allen said. He said there then was a confrontation near Broadway and Washington Street, where the officer opened fire.
“It was a very rapid call, rapid police response. There was a lot of activity,” Allen said. “I know every available officer in the station responded to that code 3. I could hear sirens, because I only work a few blocks away, so we heard everyone coming for that call. I was definitely a priority call for us.”
Witnesses told a KATU reporter at the scene that the suspect was walking around and stabbing people with a box cutter, as well as physically and verbally assaulting people.
Roads are closed in the area for the police investigation and Allen said the area will be affected for several hours.
The officer who opened fire will be placed on leave, which is common practice during police shootings.
Police Chief Bob Day and Multnomah County Prosecutor Nathan Vasquez responded to the scene, Allen said.
KATU’s Jennifer Singh contributed.
This is breaking news and will be updated as more information becomes available.
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