The Temple Police Department is investigating a shooting incident that left one officer injured on Wednesday, December 18, 2024.
At approximately 3:12 p.m., an officer in the area of the 100 block of N 11th Street heard gunshots. Upon investigating, the officer observed a disturbance between two individuals. A bystander attempted to intervene but was allegedly shot at by the suspect. The officer attempted to detain the suspect, but the individual fled in a vehicle, dragging the officer as he attempted to escape.
The suspect continued fleeing, eventually crashing his vehicle near Wendland Rd and Airport Rd. After the crash, the suspect abandoned the vehicle and fled on foot into a wooded area. Officers are actively canvassing the area in search of the suspect.
The officer involved was transported to the hospital with non-life-threatening injuries, while the bystander was also hospitalized with minimal injuries. Kennedy-Powell Elementary School was placed on a secure status as a precaution.
An extensive police presence remains near Wendland Rd and Industrial Blvd, and authorities are urging the public to avoid the area. The investigation is ongoing, and no further details have been released at this time.
Anyone with information is asked to contact the Temple Police Department at 254-298-5500 or Bell County Crime Stoppers at 254-526-8477. Tips can also be submitted anonymously at bellcountycrimestoppers.com.
