In a harrowing incident in Brooklyn, New York, two NYPD officers were shot while attempting to arrest a suspect with a violent criminal history. The suspect, identified as 39-year-old Melvin Butler, had a long rap sheet and had allegedly assaulted his mother.

The incident unfolded when the NYPD responded to a call from Butler's mother, who reported that her son was attacking her inside an apartment on Bergen Street. As the officers tried to apprehend Butler, he resisted arrest and engaged in a physical struggle with one of the officers. During the scuffle, Butler managed to gain control of the officer's gun and opened fire.

One officer was shot in the leg, while the other was struck in the hand. The struggle concluded when one of the officers returned fire, hitting Butler multiple times. The NYPD arrived on the scene in time to apprehend him. Butler is currently listed in critical but stable condition.

Police Commissioner Edward Caban expressed relief that the officers survived the incident. Both wounded officers were transported to New York City Health + Hospitals Kings County, where they are expected to make a full recovery.

Caban emphasized that what began as a routine job for patrol officers quickly turned into a life-threatening situation. He cautioned against underestimating the dangers that police officers face daily in the line of duty.

Butler, a repeat offender who previously served 15 years in prison for attempted murder, has a history of resisting arrest and domestic violence. Eyewitnesses reported hearing Butler declare that he was not going back to jail. Chief Joseph Kenny of the NYPD highlighted that Butler has six prior arrests in New York City and another in North Carolina.

Mayor Eric Adams, a former NYPD captain, commended the bravery displayed by the officers and thanked the men and women of the New York City Police Department. He stated that due to their swift actions, a dangerous individual had been apprehended, and the officers would soon be reunited with their families.

Patrick Hendry, President of the Police Benevolent Association, expressed his gratitude that the officers survived the incident. He raised concerns about the rising number of assaults on police officers and questioned the flaws within the criminal justice system that allow repeat offenders to commit such acts with impunity.

The investigation into the incident is ongoing, and authorities are working to ensure justice is served. The shooting serves as a somber reminder of the risks that law enforcement officers face daily to ensure public safety.