1 dead, 1 injured in officer-involved shooting in Newton

Just before 1 a.m., officers from the Newton Police Department were called to the Catawba County Government Center, where a woman reported she had been shot in the parking lot, the release states.

Police said the caller then drove to the parking lot of a Planet Fitness at 2725 Northwest Boulevard in Newton.

Newton police officers, firefighters and emergency medical services workers found the woman and began performing life-saving procedures on her, the release states.

That's when police say a man suspected of shooting walked into the parking lot and began shooting at police and EMS workers who were helping wife.

Officers shot the suspect, causing him to drop his firearm and fall to the ground, according to the release.

The man was pronounced dead at Atrium Health Medical Center in Charlotte. The woman was also transported by helicopter to Atrium where she is in stable condition, according to the release.

Police said the suspect and victim knew each other.

No names have been released.

The officers involved in the shooting have been placed on administrative leave, the release said, pending findings from the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation.

“This morning we had several first responders, including police, fire and emergency responders, caught in the middle of this tragic situation while trying to save a life,” Sipe said. “It is unfortunate that officers had to commit suicide to save many. Our thoughts and prayers are with our officers, the victim and others affected by this senseless act of violence. Domestic violence remains a serious problem and must be addressed immediately. If you or someone you know is in a mentally and/or physically abusive relationship, call 911 in an emergency, 828-465-7430 for other help, or contact the Family Guidance Center at 828 -322-1400 (Crisis at 828-228). – 1787) for mental health counseling and assistance.”

Sipe said this is an ongoing investigation and anyone with information about this case is asked to contact the Newton Police Department at 828-465-7430,

He said the Newton department was assisted by the SBI, the North Carolina State Highway Patrol, the Catawba County Sheriff's Office, the Conover Police Department, the Hickory Police Department, the Catawba County EMS and the Newton Fire Department.