ALBANY, Ore. -- A Benton County Sergeant is expected to recover after he was hit with gunfire during a shootout with a suspect Saturday night.
Investigators said 32-year-old Demecio Cardenas, Jr. crashed a stolen car during a police chase north of Albany at around 10:30 p.m.
He hid in some brush, and came out shooting just before midnight..
Sgt. David Peterson was badly wounded. His parents say the swift reaction from other agencies may have saved his life.
“We're so grateful to everyone, and the staff at the hospital, and for everyone's support,” said his mother Karen Peterson.
Salem police Corporal Andrew Connolly was also shot. He was treated and released for his wounds.
Cardena was seriously injured when officers returned fire.
Background: 2 police officers injured in Benton Co. shooting
