COLUMBIA (WACH) - A Columbia Police officer has been involved in a shooting at the intersection of Gervais and Laurens Street in downtown Columbia.
The State Law Enforcement Division has been called in to investigate.
The suspect is 46 year old Gregory Johnston. CPD says according to witnesses Johnston threatened customers and a cashier in a Dollar General on Taylor Street this afternoon, claiming he had a gun.
Witnesses told police that he demanded cash then took off on foot.
Chief Scott said officers then found Johnston at the intersection of Gervais Street and Laurens Street where they approached him.
"The individual did not comply to stop with the officers commands. Upon being with the officers the officers noticed that he was quickly retrieving an item out of his pocket, and officers gave fire to protect themselves and to protect the citizens around them," said Chief Randy Scott.
The Columbia Police Department says the suspect was transported to a local hospital, and is in stable condition after being shot, and neither officer was injured.
Chief Scott says Johnston has a wrap sheet facing several criminal charges including resisting arrest and possession of crack cocaine.
Both officers are on paid administrative leave as SLED continues their investigation.
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