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Omaha Police Officer critically injured in shooting

Officer Paul Latschar is an eight-year veteran of the Omaha Police Department.
Photo courtesy Omaha Police Department
Officer Paul Latschar is an eight-year veteran of the Omaha Police Department.

By Katie Knapp

Omaha, NE – An eight-year veteran of the Omaha Police Department is in critical condition at Creighton University Medical Center after he was shot Wednesday night.

Officers Paul Latschar and Jerry Swanson had just completed a call at 43rd and Laurel Streets and were patrolling the area when they noticed a vehicle driven by a known gang member. When they pulled over the vehicle, its driver, 30-year-old Corey Allen, allegedly opened fire on the Officers. Officer Latschar was struck by gunfire multiple times. Both Officers returned fire, and Officer Swanson pursued Allen on foot. Allen was arrested a short time later at 42nd and Fort Streets.

Latschar underwent four hours of surgery at Creighton University Medical Center. One bullet passed through Latschar's abdomen and pierced an artery in his leg. Trauma Surgeon Dr. Robert Fitzgibbons Jr. says Latschar should make a full recovery barring any complications. Dr. Marcus Balters says the Officer was at high risk for death and was given 20 units of blood. Officer Latschar is expected to remain hospitalized for the next ten days.

Corey Allen is charged with attempted first degree murder, use of a weapon to commit a felony, and felon in possession of a firearm.