Baton Rogue: 3 American cops shot dead in fresh attack on police officers
Three US law enforcement officers were killed, Sunday morning, after a man reportedly armed with an assault rifle opened fire on officers.
The attack happened in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, where police fatally shot CDs seller Alton Sterling after pinning him to the ground.
The East Baton Rouge Sheriff’s Department has confirmed the sad incident.
Week started with police funerals in Dallas and ends with multiple officers dead in Baton Rouge. Terrible.
— Oliver Darcy (@oliverdarcy) July 17, 2016
“Three law enforcement are confirmed dead, three others injured. One suspect is dead, law enforcement believes two others may be at large,” the sheriff’s office said in a statement.
“Asking the public if they see anything suspicious please call 911 immediately.
“At approximately 9:00 this morning Baton Rouge Police officers and East Baton Rouge Sheriff’s deputies were involved in a shooting incident on Airline Highway near Old Hammond Highway.
CNN's reporting Baton Rogue suspect was walking down the street with an assault weapon, which is perfectly legal in Louisiana.
— Ryan Beckler (@RyanBeckler) July 17, 2016
“Multiple officers from both agencies sustained injuries and were transported to local hospitals,” the statement said.
Reports now say no less than seven officers were shot. The gunman, who reportedly wore a mask has been killed, the police say. Authorities say two other suspects may have escaped the scene.
The police say they’ve closed a highway around the area as the event unfolds.
“Please be advised Airline Highway both lanes is currently shut down from Goodwood to Old Hammond. Old Hammond is closed to Tara Boulevard,” the statement said.
“At this point in time the scene is still active. We are advising the public to please take an alternate route and steer clear of the area.
“Those in the area are asked to remain indoors and contact law enforcement immediately if they see anything suspicious.”
The attack comes 10 days after a sniper opened fire on 11 police officers during a Black Lives Matter protest in Dallas.
Protesters were demonstrating against police’s fatal shooting of Alton Sterling in Baton Rogue Louisiana; and that of Philando Castile in Minnesota. The shootings happened 24 hours apart.
The White House says President Barack Obama is being updated about the latest attack on law enforcement officers..
