SHOREWOOD, WI — A Shorewood police officer was shot early Thursday morning while responding to reports of a shooting near Bartlett and Kenmore Avenues.

According to Shorewood Police Chief Heather Wurth, the incident occurred just before 3:00 a.m. on July 3, during what authorities now believe was a targeted act of violence.

As officers were en route to the scene, one of the squad vehicles came under fire from an unknown assailant.

At least two rounds struck the windshield, and another hit the passenger side of the squad car.

One officer was struck, but the bullet was stopped by his protective vest.

He was transported to the hospital as a precaution and has since been released. Chief Wurth confirmed the officer is in “good spirits.”

The status of two other individuals injured in the initial shooting has not been publicly released, though the Milwaukee County Medical Examiner’s Office has confirmed it responded to the scene.

As the investigation unfolded, residents near Newhall and Wood were urged to shelter in place due to what was described as an “ongoing tactical situation.” A heavy police presence was reported in both Shorewood and surrounding areas, including Milwaukee and Glendale.

Law enforcement sources now indicate that a high-speed pursuit involving the suspect unfolded later in the morning.

The suspect allegedly fired shots at officers during the chase, including at 4th Street and Reservoir Avenue.

The chase ultimately ended near Port Washington and Hampton Avenues in Glendale, where officers from the Milwaukee and Glendale Police Departments returned fire.

Preliminary, unconfirmed reports indicate that the suspect was shot and killed while still inside the vehicle. Official confirmation is pending.

During a press conference, Chief Wurth stated the attack did not appear to be random and called for an end to the rising violence in the region:

“Our officers are doing an incredibly difficult job, under difficult circumstances, and facing inherent risks. We need the support of the public now more than ever,” she said.

She further urged community members to report illegal firearms and active threats, emphasizing that many individuals in the community are aware of unlawful behavior and must come forward to prevent tragedies.

“We know people have guns illegally, and we need the community’s help to end this tragic, tragic violence,” she added.

The shooting incident remains under active investigation by local and regional law enforcement.

The names of the suspect and other victims have not yet been released. Shorewood Police, Milwaukee Police, Glendale Police, and additional tactical units continue to coordinate efforts.

Residents are urged to avoid the area and report any relevant information to authorities. Further updates are expected as the investigation progresses.