The incident started just before 9 a.m. in the area of 8th and Hope streets. According to the Los Angeles Police Department, officers tried to pull over the driver of a gray Audi for reckless driving and he failed to stop.
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While chasing the suspect, the officers crashed into an object at 12th Street and Broadway. An LAPD airship located the suspect a short distance away and officers re-engaged into the pursuit.
The suspect eventually came to a stop in the area of 12th Street and Hooper Avenue and exited the car carrying a handgun, police said. That's when officers opened fire and struck him.
The male suspect, whose name has not been released, was taken to a hospital in stable condition.
An LAPD spokesperson said in pursuits like this, officer weigh the risks before proceeding.
"Any vehicle pursuit is extremely dangerous," said Sgt. Letisia Ruiz. "Officers have to have the balance test - what is the risk versus the gain. That's something officers constantly reassess. We want to make sure the public is safe when these things occur, and drive as safely as possible."
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The officers who were involved in the initial collision were not seriously injured. Nobody else was hurt.