RICHMOND, Ind. – Indiana State Police detectives are investigating an officer-involved shooting that left a Richmond Police Department officer fighting for her life. Officer Seara Burton responded to a call to assist with a traffic stop, on Wednesday at about 6:30 p.m.
She located the vehicle, a moped being ridden by an adult male, and made the stop. During the pullover, Burton’s K9 partner Brev conducted an open-air sniff around the moped and indicated the possible presence of narcotics.
While officers were speaking with the suspect, Phillip M. Lee, 47, of Richmond, he allegedly pulled out a firearm and shot several rounds toward officers, at least one of which struck Burton. As police returned fire, Lee fled on foot. After a brief foot chase, the fugitive was apprehended. He had suffered gunshot wounds and taken to a hospital for treatment.
28-year-year-old officer Burton was airlifted to a hospital in Dayton, Ohio, where she was listed in very critical condition. She has served with Richmond Police Department for four years.
This investigation is active and ongoing. Lee is in custody and has been arrested on probable cause. The Wayne County Prosecutor will determine actual criminal charges upon review of the case.
