Suspect shoots Dinuba police officer, wounded when officers return fire

DINUBA, Calif. (KFSN) -- A Dinuba police officer and a suspect were injured in an exchange of gunfire on Thursday night.

The shooting happened around 8 pm near Kern and I Street, just outside of Dinuba High School.

Dinuba Police Chief Abel Iriarte says a wanted suspect was brandishing a gun at people in the area.

Shortly after police approached the man, he opened fire, hitting an officer.

Officers returned fire, striking the suspect.

Chief Iriarte says the wounded officer was taken to a local hospital and is expected to survive.

The suspect was also taken to the hospital with life-threatening injuries.

The officers involved in the shooting will be placed on paid administrative leave.

The Tulare County Sheriff's Office will conduct the investigation into the shooting.

Chief Iriarte expected that officers would be at the scene all night but that Dinuba High will be able to open as usual on Friday.

Stay with Action News for the latest updates on this developing story.