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San Jose police officer remains in critical condition after shooting

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A San Jose Police Department officer who was shot in the line of duty almost a month ago is still in critical condition. 

“The officer is in critical condition, but is stable,” an SJPD spokesperson told the press on Tuesday.

On August 16, officers responded to a 911 call from a pregnant woman reporting that she was being attacked by her drunk husband inside their townhome on Auzerais Avenue. 

According to court records, Gabriel Mario Carreras, 44, attempted to punch his wife in the stomach and “get rid of the baby.” 

When two officers arrived at the couple’s townhome, Carreras opened fire from the balcony. 

The officers, identified as “Officer A” and her partner, Officer Low never returned fire. 

“Officer Low stated he heard a loud bang and saw Officer A. fall to the ground,” court documents state.

The female officer was hit by a bullet below her bulletproof vest before Officer Low dragged her out. 

Police said the female officer had life-threatening injuries and a trauma ICU physician said the gunshot wound resulted in injuries in the intestine, colon, liver, and a spinal fracture. 

The case is a “heart-breaking example of domestic violence, and an inspiring case of police heroism,” Santa Clara County District Attorney Jeff Rosen said.

Carreras remains behind bars with no bail. Prosecutors charged the felon with attempting to murder a police officer, as well as several firearms and assault-related felony charges.

District Attorney Rosen said, “An officer lies badly wounded in the hospital for trying to save a pregnant woman. As we give our sincerest thanks to her and her heroic partner, we are determined to make sure this suspect will never see a gun, or freedom again.”

Carreras will face a life prison sentence if he is convicted, prosecutors said.

Charlene

Charlene is a Bay Area journalist who hails from the small community of Fresno. Drawing from her experience writing for her college paper, Charlene continues to advocate for free press and local journalism. She also volunteers in all the beach cleanups she can because she loves the water.