Man suspected of shooting Detroit police officer identified as James Edward Ray

Detroit officer's condition deteriorating

DETROIT – The man suspected of shooting a Detroit police officer Sunday night on the city's west side has been identified as James Edward Ray, police announced Monday.

Police said Ray was shot and killed Sunday after allegedly shooting an officer in the head with a .380 nickel plated pistol. The officer was responding to a 911 call about a domestic situation around 11:45 p.m. Sunday in the 10000 block of Joy Road near Wyoming Avenue.

According to Detroit police Chief James Craig, the caller said they would leave the door to the apartment building propped open, but officers instead were locked out of the building. Craig said they repeatedly kicked and pounded on the door to get tenants' attention.

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A resident of the building, not involved with the domestic situation, opened the door and began firing. A 14-year veteran of the force was shot in the head with a .380 nickel plated pistol.

EMS was already in route for the domestic situation.

The junior officer at the scene fired several rounds from a covered position and the suspect was shot and killed.

"This is a sobering reminder of the dangers that our officers face every day," Craig said.

Former Detroit assistant police chief talks about dangerous time for officers

Former Detroit police assistant chief Steve Dolunt talked about police shootings and the dangerous times for officers. You can watch the story below.

Officer's condition 'deteriorating'

Craig held a news conference Monday morning to provide updates on the officer's condition. Craig was joined by Mayor Mike Duggan and Dr. James Wagner.

Wagner said the officer was severely injured and that his condition had "deteriorated" overnight. The officer was shot once in the back of the head.

He said the officer would need another surgery.

"We’re going to do everything we can to save his life," Wagner said.

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About the Author:

Derick is the Lead Digital Editor for ClickOnDetroit and has been with Local 4 News since April 2013. Derick specializes in breaking news, crime and local sports.