COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. – An officer with the Colorado Springs Police Department who was wounded in a shootout early Thursday remains in critical condition but is stable, a spokesperson for the department said Saturday.
The police department tweeted the update just before 1 p.m., saying Officer Cem Duzel’s doctors reported he was stable, but that “his condition continues to be critical.”
Update: Cem’s doctors report he is stable. However, his condition continues to be critical. He is taking some nutrients and tolerating it well. His family, friends, and colleagues continue to be at his side. We will update Cem’s condition as appropriate.
— Springs Police (@CSPDPIO) August 4, 2018
Not long after making that announcement, police tweeted Duzel’s parents wanted to let the community know how much they appreciate the incredible outpouring of support shown for the wounded officer. They asked the community to keep Duzel in their thoughts and prayers.
Duzel, a five-year veteran of the department, had responded to the area near N. Union Boulevard and E. Boulder Avenue after dispatch received multiple calls about gunfire.
As other officers began to arrive, the suspect produced a handgun and shots were exchanged between the suspect and police. Duzel was allegedly shot in the head.
The El Paso County Sheriff's Office is investigating the incident.
If you'd like to donate to help the officer or his family, the Colorado Springs Police Protective Association (CSPPA) has set up its Fallen Officer Relief Fund. You can call 719-634-0058, mail a donation or stop by the offices at 516 N. Tejon Street in Colorado Springs.
Donations will be used to defray expenses associated with helping Duzel and his family, the police department said in a Facebook post Thursday evening.
