Suspect arrested after allegedly assaulting Port Hueneme police officer with moving car

PORT HUENEME, Calif. (KABC) -- A suspect was arrested early Friday morning after allegedly using a moving vehicle to assault a police officer in Port Hueneme, authorities said.

The encounter took place at about 12:49 a.m. in the 2500 block of Yardarm Avenue, where two officers were on foot patrol, according to the Port Hueneme Police Department.

When police attempted to make contact with the motorist, one of the officers noticed what appeared to be a firearm in the vehicle, authorities said. The driver allegedly attempted to drive off and struck one of the officers while doing so.

Police unsuccessfully tried to subdue the man by deploying a Taser on him, then became involved in an altercation with him.

The unidentified suspect was subsequently injured, though it was unclear exactly how. He was transported to a hospital, where he was treated for his injuries. He was then released and booked at Ventura County Jail.

The officers sustained minor injuries, including "cuts and bruises, scrapes, some blood on their uniforms and whatnot but they're doing good," police Sgt. Eric Starna said.

The suspect's car, a gray Chevrolet four-door sedan, was towed from the scene. Investigators were awaiting a search warrant before examining its interior.

The man in custody was facing a charge of attempted murder of a police officer. An investigation was ongoing.