Police Officer Shot in Columbus: What We Know Right Now

It happened at about 7:30 p.m. Thursday. Authorities say two officers arrived at 3410 15th St. in Columbus to serve a warrant. Columbus Police Capt. Todd Thalken says the officers were met by a man armed with a rifle.

The man fired shots, and officers returned fire. The suspect was hit, as was one of the officers, who was shot twice.

Both injured people were taken to a hospital in Columbus. Thalken says the officer was then flown to an Omaha hospital to be treated. Authorities have yet to identify the officer or the suspect.

Thalken said he did not yet know the extent of the injuries of either person.

Columbus Mayor Jim Bulkley said the officer was in stable condition as he was being flown to Omaha. A full statement from the mayor is printed below.

The Nebraska State Patrol assisted with the situation.

MAYOR BULKLEY’S STATEMENT:

“The citizens of Columbus are praying for the officer and his entire family. This man represents the very best of our community and put his life on the line tonight so that we can live safely in the town we love. The Columbus Police Department is a family and right now this crew of dedicated public servants and community members is benefitting from an out-pouring of unconditional support that is amazing.”