An Oneonta police officer has been shot and injured during an altercation with a suspicious individual on Sand Valley Road this morning. The officer, whose identity has not been disclosed, was reportedly "alert & talking" when he was airlifted to UAB Hospital for treatment. The suspect involved in the incident was shot and killed.

According to Blount County Sheriff Mark Moon, the incident unfolded following a call about a suspicious person that was made directly to the Oneonta Police Chief's cell phone around 11 a.m. Upon arrival at the scene, the individual fled into the nearby woods.

Sheriff Moon provided further details, stating that the suspect was seen walking through a neighborhood without any apparent vehicle. The individual was reportedly knocking on doors, prompting local residents to alert the authorities. Officers attempted to engage with the suspect when they spotted him sitting on the side of the road. However, the suspect quickly fled, leading to a foot pursuit.

A brief standoff ensued between the suspect and law enforcement within the confines of the wooded area. During the confrontation, shots were fired, resulting in both the suspect and one officer being hit. Sheriff Moon did not confirm if the injured officer had fired at the suspect. He also revealed that the suspect was armed with one, possibly two, guns.

Sheriff Moon clarified that three officers were involved in the shooting, but only one sustained injuries. The wounded officer was struck in the leg and subsequently transported to UAB Hospital by air. Fortunately, his condition is reported to be stable.

The identity of the suspect has not been publicly released at this time. Sheriff Moon indicated that the individual appeared to be possibly homeless or transient, and may have been in his 20s or 30s. Additionally, it was revealed that the suspect had used a woman's phone prior to the shooting. Law enforcement authorities are currently investigating the content of the phone call and attempting to ascertain the identity of the person the suspect had contacted.

Sheriff Moon emphasized that the incident falls under the jurisdiction of the Oneonta Police Department, who had several officers, including their public safety director and chief, involved in the response. The Alabama Law Enforcement Agency has been called in to handle the investigation.

As the investigation continues, further updates regarding the shooting incident are awaited.