Massive search for two suspects in shooting of LAPD officer

Two suspects were being sought Thursday afternoon after a shootout that left a Los Angeles police officer with multiple injuries.

A third man was hospitalized after the shooting but it was unclear whether he is a suspect or a bystander, LAPD Cmdr. Andy Smith said.

The veteran officer, assigned to the LAPD's 77th Division, was shot at least three times Thursday afternoon when a suspect opened fire on him during a pedestrian stop in South Los Angeles, officials said. He was hospitalized in stable condition.

The attack occurred on Western Avenue near 66th Street when the officer and his partner pulled over two suspects, one on foot and another on a bicycle. Moments after stepping out of their black and white patrol vehicle, one of the suspects opened fire at close range with a pistol.

More than a dozen shots were fired, officials said.

The gunman fled north on Western Avenue. A second man involved in the incident fled south. One forced his way into a home on 71st Street and ran out the back door, said a source with knowledge of the unfolding search, who requested anonymity because he is not authorized to comment publicly.