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Police: Man shoots at officers during traffic stop, breaks leg after getting hit by cruiser

Posted at 9:03 PM, Jan 02, 2018
and last updated 2018-01-02 21:14:08-05

A 34-year-old man is in custody after allegedly shooting at Akron police officers during a traffic stop on Tuesday evening.

The shooting happened around 5:30 p.m.

Authorities said they received information that Michael P. Johnson, a man wanted on multiple charges, was in the area driving around in a Chevrolet Blazer with several other people.

Police said that when they located the vehicle and attempted to stop the SUV, Johnson jumped out of the car and opened fire.

The officers returned fire and Johnson ran off through a field towards Circle K Gas Station, 1608 East Avenue.

According to police, Johnson tried unsuccessfully to carjack a customer at the gas station. He then ran off after the customer drove away and was hit by a police cruiser.

Johnson was taken to Akron General Hospital and is being treated for a broken leg.

Authorities recovered a handgun at the scene.  No officers were injured in the incident. 

Officials said the officers will be placed on administrative leave per department police while the shooting is investigated.