OFFICER IN HOSPITAL SHOOTING 'VIOLENTLY ATTACKED'

Acting in self-defense, a Cherry Hills Village police officer shot and wounded a suspected auto thief taken to Swedish Hospital for treatment, officials said Friday.

The shooting occurred Thursday evening inside the hospital, which is officially known as HCA HealthONE Swedish, at 501 East Hampton Avenue in Englewood. No other injuries were reported.

"The officer, who had remained with the suspect during all phases of the hospital visit, was violently attacked by the suspect," officials said. "As a result of that physical altercation the officer fired shots, striking the suspect."

Cherry Hills Police Chief Jason Lyons said: “Situations like this are why an officer remains with a suspect at all times while medical care is provided. Violence in a healthcare setting is unacceptable, and we are grateful that no additional injuries occurred.”

The officer was placed on paid administrative leave. The 18th Judicial District's Critical Incident Response Team is leading the investigation.