4 Houston police officers recovering following shooting, 2 suspects dead

HOUSTON, Texas — The Houston Police Department says five of its own officers have been injured in the line of duty.

In a news conference outside Memorial Hermann Hospital and Medical Center, Houston Police Chief Art Acevedo said four police officers were shot while trying to serve a warrant in southeast Houston late Monday afternoon. Another officer was also injured in the process.

Police said the house was under suspicion for selling black tar heroin.

Acevedo said as the officers broke through the door of the home they had a search warrant for, one or two people began shooting at the officers.

Police said two suspects were killed by return fire from the officers.

In a news conference Monday night, Acevedo said two of the officers were undergoing surgery. He said the officers were hit in the neck area. Those officers were last listed as being in critical but stable condition.

Two other officer who were shot, sustained less serious injuries and were going to be held overnight for observation. The fifth officer injured during the incident has been released from the hospital.

Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner offered his praise for the Police Department and EMS personnel who responded to scene. He also asked for the community's prayers for the recovery of the officers.

"This has been a tough day for our city ... pray for all of our police officers," Turner said.

In a statement from Texas Gov. Greg Abbott, he said, "This evening's horrific attack on police officers is a solemn reminder of the service and sacrifice our brave men and women in law enforcement make every day to keep us safe."

Abbott promised that the city of Houston and the department will have "whatever state resources they need."

Agents with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives are responding to the scene.

Cox Media Group