I-80 in Salt Lake City closed after suspect shoots at police and tow truck driver

SALT LAKE CITY (ABC4) — I-80 between Bangerter Highway and I-215 has been shut down Monday morning after police say a 44-year-old man opened fire on a tow truck driver and Salt Lake City officers late Sunday night.

The Salt Lake City Police Department said the shooting happened around 10:45 p.m. on June 29, when the tow truck driver reported someone shooting at him “multiple times” near North Redwood Road and West North Temple. The suspect allegedly continued shooting as he drove away from the scene.

Salt Lake City officers responded to and found the 44-year-old suspect and attempted to stop the car, but the driver reportedly did not comply. The driver allegedly continued to shoot toward officers, damaging at least three patrol cars. Officers returned fire and eventually stopped the suspect’s car by using a PIT maneuver on I-80, just south of the airport on North Temple, bringing the pursuit to an end.

The suspect, who has not been publicly identified, was taken into custody and taken to the hospital in critical condition. The Salt Lake City Police Department said he remains under police watch as he receives medical care.

“It is remarkable that none of our officers or community members were hurt during this dangerous incident,” said Salt Lake City Police Chief Brian Redd. “Our officers had to make split-second decisions to stop an immediate threat. Their response was courageous and focused on protecting our community.”

The Officer Involved Critical Incident (OICI) protocol was activated as a result of the shooting. Three Salt Lake City Police officers and two sergeants were placed on administrative leave, pending the investigation, as is standard with an OICI incident. The West Jordan Police Department is leading the investigation into the incident.

As of 6:15 a.m. on June 30, eastbound lanes of I-80 toward Salt Lake City remain closed between 5600 West and 3200 West. Salt Lake City Police said this closure is likely to remain closed through the morning rush hour commute.

The Utah Department of Transportation said drivers can expect delays in the area and suggested using SR-201 as an alternate route into Salt Lake City.