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For some reason, I couldn't submit the article in the article section, so I submitted the news story here...please everyone, wear your vest!

 


Authorities investigate incident

Trooper Hit By Bullet

A New York state trooper was hit in the chest with a bullet Friday night as he responded to a call in Rochester. A trooper and a Rochester police officer were patrolling the streets as part of Operation Impact. They found a man launching illegal fireworks.

Police say when they went to arrest him, they also found he had cocaine in his possession. The man was taken into custody and put in the back of a State Police car.

Police say that's when a disorderly group came out and more officers were called to secure the scene. State police Lt. Neil Gallivan and Sergeant Jose Vasquez responded.

That's when a shot was fired and Lt. Gallivan was hit. "It hit the trunk of car on left side, ricocheted and ultimately struck our officer somewhere in the midsection. It wasn't much of an impact. It was very little,” said Major Mark Koss of the New York State Police.

“The round fell in his hands as a matter of fact. We do not know where that round was fired from. We're in the process of doing a forensic investigation to determine where it was fired from and who fired it," added Ross.

Asked about the dangers of police work, Koss said the danger is very real for troopers

"We’ve had the unfortunate situation where we've lost eight officers in the last 12 years and every time an officer puts on a uniform and goes out, he's putting life in danger." Lieutenant Gallivan was not hurt. Police searched the area for witnesses and say one of the city's new mounted cameras may help with leads.

Police are asking for the public's help.

If you know anything you're asked to call 911 or the State Police directly 279-8891.

gj/cdo