Lt. Dave Okada, a spokesman for the Salem Police Department, said the shooting occurred about 3:25 p.m. at 2020 Park Ave. NE after officers had gone to the address to look for a wanted person.
Officers Darren Buchholz and Travis Brossard were in the residence speaking with people when they were attacked by the pit bull.
Buchholz tried to push the dog away but shot it in self defense when it continued to attack, Okada said. As he was firing at the pit bull, 38-year-old Steven Deleon jumped in, apparently trying to intervene in the situation. Deleon was struck in the foot by a gunshot and was taken to Salem Hospital.
Buchholz and Brossard were not injured and were placed on administrative leave while the shooting is investigated, which is standard procedure. The Oregon State Police will conduct the investigation.
Anyone with information regarding this investigation is asked to call the Oregon State Police at (800) 452-7888.
(Statesman Journal - Oct 20, 2012)
