Police Say Man Shot Himself During Traffic Stop West of Salem

After stopping, the 30-year old male operator remained inside the car and placed a gun to his head. The OSP sergeant took cover and then heard a gunshot.

Salem-News.com

(WEST SALEM, Ore.) - Oregon State Police say a motorist shot himself during a traffic stop Saturday evening after being stopped by an OSP Sergeant on Highway 22 west of the Highway 99W junction in Polk County.

Police say the name of the man is not being released until tomorrow.

Investigators say an OSP Sergeant stopped a 1995 Honda Civic four-door on Highway 22 near milepost 18 for a speed-related violation at approximately 6:57 PM.

After stopping, the 30-year old male operator remained inside the car and placed a gun to his head. The OSP sergeant took cover and then heard a gunshot.

The man was discovered suffering a gunshot wound to his head and medical personnel were immediately dispatched to the scene.

He was transported to Salem Hospital and is reported to be in critical condition. OSP detectives are investigating the incident, and the Polk County District Attorney's Office has been notified.