Motorist killed, officer wounded in Dalton shootout; autopsy set for later today

CONCORD - Police are investigating a Dalton shootout between a State Trooper and a motorist who was killed in the incident.

The incident unfolded around 9 p.m. on Wednesday during a traffic stop on Bridge Hill Road in Dalton. Shortly after the motor vehicle stop, there was an exchange of gunfire between the Trooper and the sole male occupant of the stopped vehicle," according to a press release sent today from the state AG's office.

The unidentified victim, who was armed with a rifle and handgun, was found dead at the scene with an apparent gunshot wound.

The trooper suffered a gunshot wound and was transported to a hospital for treatment of his wounds. He remains in stable condition.

An autopsy on the victim is scheduled for later today to determine the deceased male's cause and manner of death, and to confirm his identity.

The name of the trooper involved in the incident is being withheld pending the conclusion of a formal interview.

Safety officials say the involved trooper did not have a police body camera or cruiser camera.