In a harrowing incident in Washington, D.C., three police officers were shot while attempting to serve an arrest warrant at a residence on Wednesday morning. As of now, the gunman remains barricaded inside the house, and negotiations are underway, according to authorities.

The officers, who were shot, sustained non-life-threatening injuries and are currently in "good spirits" at nearby hospitals, stated Police Chief Pamela Smith during a press briefing. Additionally, a fourth officer was injured but not by gunfire, Chief Smith added.

The situation unfolded at approximately 7:30 a.m. when police officers responded to the residence in order to serve an arrest warrant for cruelty to animals, Chief Smith revealed. The suspect within the home refused to cooperate or come outside when officers attempted to establish contact. As officers tried to enter the residence, the suspect opened fire, resulting in the officers being struck by gunfire.

The standoff with the gunman is ongoing, with the police chief describing the suspect's behavior as "up and down." Chief Smith stated that the authorities are determined to resolve the situation and apprehend the suspect, mentioning that the standoff could last as long as necessary.

The Humane Rescue Alliance's field services director was present at the scene alongside the officers when the shooting occurred. The organization expressed its concern for the injured officers and extended well wishes for their recovery in a statement. They also expressed worry for the safety of the officers who remain on the scene, the community members affected, and the animals they were there to protect.

This incident highlights the alarming toll that gun violence continues to take on families in communities across the nation. White House spokesperson Karine Jean-Pierre acknowledged the severity of the shooting and emphasized the need for action from Congress to ensure safer communities. President Biden has implemented executive actions to address gun violence, and the Department of Justice is actively implementing the new gun trafficking law through the bipartisan Safer Communities Act. However, it is deemed insufficient, and Jean-Pierre called on Republicans in Congress to act proactively to enhance the safety of communities.

Authorities are diligently working to resolve the standoff and bring the suspect into custody. The community remains on edge as they await a peaceful resolution to this tense situation.