Policewoman shot in burglary probe
For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails
Sign up to our free breaking news emails
Sign up to our free breaking news emails
The probationary officer was gunned down when she attempted to stop a man near the scene of the break-in in Nottingham just before midnight.
A spokesman for Nottinghamshire Police said the officer was wearing body armour and is in a serious condition in intensive care after undergoing emergency surgery.
The officer was taken to Queen's Medical Centre in Nottingham following the incident in Lenton. Her family are at her bedside.
A Nottinghamshire Police spokeswoman said: "Shortly before midnight, officers attended a report of a burglary at an address in Lenton Boulevard, Lenton.
"Two officers, an experienced city-based male officer and a female probation officer, attempted to stop a male nearby. The suspect produced a firearm and shot one of the officers.
"The 25-year-old probation officer, who was wearing body armour, has undergone emergency surgery for a gunshot injury.
"Shortly after 5am she was transferred to intensive care where she remains in a serious condition.
"Her family are with her at Queen's Medical Centre."
No-one has been arrested but a major investigation is under way, police said. Several scenes have been cordoned off for forensic tests.
Detective Chief Inspector Tony Heydon, who is leading the hunt for the gunman, said: "This is clearly a significant incident and anyone with information should contact police as a matter of urgency."
Divisional Commander Chief Superintendent Marcus Beale said: "This is an extremely serious incident and has been a terrible shock for this officer's family.
"Officers are clearly very concerned about their colleague and we are 100% committed to finding and apprehending the offender as soon as possible." Nottingham has been the scene of a number of fatal shootings that have shocked the nation.
Last year two gangland thugs were convicted of murdering innocent schoolgirl Danielle Beccan, 14, in a drive-by shooting in the city in October 2004.
And in September 2003, 64-year-old Nottingham jeweller Marian Bates was shot and killed during an armed raid.
Home Office Minister Hazel Blears said: "I was shocked to hear of the shooting of a police officer in Nottingham this morning whilst carrying out her duties.
"My thoughts are with the injured officer and her colleague at this difficult time."