2 officers shot while investigating a suspicious vehicle in Salina, New York

A deputy sheriff and a police officer were killed when shots were fired while investigating a report of a suspicious vehicle in Salina, New York, officials confirmed.

The slain officers, later identified as Michael Jensen of the Syracuse Police Department and Lt. Michael Hoosock of the Onondaga County Sheriff’s Office, were part of a group of investigators investigating the vehicle that allegedly fled from officers during a traffic stop hours earlier, according to Syracuse police. Investigators tracked the car to a residence on Darien Drive.

As they entered the address, a suspect opened fire, which police say led to a gun battle between officers and the suspect.

According to police, the alleged suspect, Christopher R. Murphy (33), was hit and killed.

Jensen and Hoosock were taken to the hospital where they were pronounced dead, police said.

“We lost two heroes tonight,” Syracuse Police Chief Joe Cecile said at an early morning press conference.

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The incident occurred after Syracuse police officers attempted to stop a vehicle earlier in the evening on what authorities said was a report of a stolen car early Monday morning. When the vehicle – which police described as suspicious later in the day – did not stop, officers took down the license plate number and went to a related location, authorities said.

“This is a dark day for Syracuse. Our worst nightmare has come true,” Mayor Ben Walsh said at a press conference. “Our thoughts are with the families of these two police officers, two heroes, and if anyone knows a family member of a police officer, give them a hug. This is their worst nightmare and we just have to be there for everyone in the police force today.”

The investigation is ongoing and police are still reviewing body-worn cameras, ballistics data and other evidence, officials said at an afternoon news conference.

The New York State Attorney General’s Office will also assist in the investigation.

Jensen, who leaves behind his parents and sister, was with the police for more than two years, Cecile told reporters.

Hoosock, a married father of three, joined the Onondaga County Sheriff’s Office in 2007 and has received several awards and medals for his service, including the 2020 Medal of Valor, according to Sheriff Toby Shelley.

Ryan McMahon, an Onondaga County administrator, said he also served as a volunteer firefighter.

“This was just an incredible human being,” McMahon said at a news conference. “And as the mayor, the sheriff and Chief Cecil have indicated, our community is in shock right now and we are hurting.”

ABC News’ Megan Wordell and Darren Reynolds contributed to this report.

2 police officers shot while investigating suspicious vehicle in Salina, New York. Originally published on abcnews.go.com