Lummi Nation police officer shot during traffic stop; suspect now in custody

A Lummi Nation police officer was shot multiple times during a traffic stop early Monday morning. The suspect is now in custody after an hourslong search.

Just before 1 a.m. Monday, the 37-year-old Lummi Nation officer was investigating a traffic incident in the 3200 block of North Red River Road, after a car had driven off the road and into the ditch, according to a Facebook post by the Whatcom County Sheriff's Office.

When the officer approached the driver, they opened fire and shot the officer "multiple times," before fleeing the scene on foot.

Multiple agencies responded to the incident, according to the sheriff's office. The shooter is now in custody, as of 3:15 p.m. Monday.

The officer who was shot was immediately transported to emergency medical care and has since undergone surgery.

"Today, we faced a horrific incident that has deeply affected our community," Whatcom County Sheriff Donnell "Tank" Tanksley said in a statement in the Facebook post. "I want to emphasize our unwavering support for the office and their family during this difficult time. We are working diligently to investigate this incident to help ensure that justice is served."

More information was expected later in the day after the suspect was caught.