Police search for robbery suspect who shot at officer in Southeast DC

SEAT PLEASANT, Md. - Police are searching for a robbery suspect who shot at an officer Saturday in Southeast D.C. Investigators said it started in Prince George's County when three men robbed a Seat Pleasant barber shop.

According to police, it was just after 5 p.m. when the three armed men robbed Joe's Old Fashion Barber Shop on MLK Highway. The robbers took off in a van that Seat Pleasant Police spotted soon after.

"Officers attempted to conduct a traffic stop," said Thomas Lester, Seat Pleasant Police spokesman. "The vehicle failed to stop leading officers on a brief chase inside the District."

Police said at some point, the man driving the van got shot. Police said they did not shoot at the van, so presumably, one of the robbers' own guns went off in the car.

The van stopped at C and 53rd streets in Southeast, about a mile and a half from the barber shop, and police said the injured driver fell out of the vehicle. He was detained and taken to the hospital.

Police said a second suspect tried to run, but was caught.

The third suspect also ran and investigators said that he shot at a Seat Pleasant police officer who was running after him.

The officer wasn't hurt.

"In today's climate, it's very tough as you know," said Seat Pleasant Police Chief Devan Martin. "There have been recent attacks and a lot of officers being ambushed across our nation. Initially, you have that adrenaline rush, you want to make sure your guy's OK. Today I'm happy to report that this story, it could've ended another way, but we're thankful to God for his grace in protecting our officers."

Police said they recovered 3 guns, including one pistol laying on the sidewalk.

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