Man charged with attempted murder after shooting police officer

New Albany Police Chief Todd Bailey said one of his department’s officers was shot when a suspect, Barry Sowders, 29, of New Albany, opened fire around 11:30 a.m. Police had been searching for him in connection with “a prior shooting in the city,” according to Indiana State Police.

“When they encountered him, he opened fire on the officers,” Bailey said.

New Albany Police Cpl. Andrew Byrne was taken to University of Louisville Hospital after being shot. Bailey said his injuries were not considered life-threatening. On Tuesday afternoon, Mayor Jeff Gahan said Byrne was in good spirits.

Sowders was arrested a short time later. He is charged with three counts of Attempted Murder and Resisting Law Enforcement. He was treated and released and is now at Jefferson County Metro Corrections awaiting extradition back to Indiana.

Bailey praised his officers and fellow law enforcement agencies that rushed to the scene. He said Indiana State Police will take over the investigation. He referred all questions to the Floyd County Prosecutor’s Office.

The City of New Albany posted on social media a picture of a man police were looking for in the area of Main and Spring streets. The page described the man as 25 years old, 6-feet tall and armed and dangerous. A half-hour later, the city said the man was in custody.

“Thank you to New Albany Police Department and other responding agencies for their quick response,” the post said. “There will remain heavy police activity in this area while an investigation is conducted. Please continue to avoid the immediate areas between Main/Spring, 13th and Vincennes Street. We will update with further information as we receive it.”

“There’s no risk to public safety, but there is going to be an active police presence in this area until such time as this scene is cleared,” Bailey said.

Full Link ( Here )