DA: Suspect shot after opening fire on Lowell police officer

LOWELL, Mass. (MyFoxBoston.com) -- A suspect accused of shooting at a Lowell police officer during a traffic stop is being treated for injuries he sustained in return fire.

The Middlesex District Attorney's office said a Lowell officer stopped a car on Middlesex Street just before 3:30 a.m. for motor vehicle violations. They allege the unidentified suspect exited the car and began to fire multiple rounds at the officer with a handgun. The officer then returned fire.

The district attorney's office said the suspect, Darris Newton, was treated, but did not disclose the extent of his injuries. Newton was charged with armed assault with the intent to murder, unlawful carrying of a firearm, unlawful carrying of a loaded firearm, unlawful discharge of a firearm within 500 feet of a dwelling, operating a motor vehicle with defective equipment and a red light violation. He was arraigned from his hospital bed Wednesday afternoon.

The officer, Patrick F. Casey, was not hit by the gunfire. He will be on administrative leave until the investigation is completed.

Cox Media Group