The officer is in stable condition after receiving a gunshot wound to the torso at around 3:14 a.m. on Sunday in the 2300 block of Winchester street in the Western District.

Baltimore Police Commissioner Michael Harrison said that two officers were called to the area to help disperse a large crowd who had converged in defiance of the calls for people to practice social distancing and avoiding large gatherings.

As people started to leave, the officers saw an SUV speed into a nearby parking lot with a damaged tire.

The officers engaged with the driver and became aware he was armed with a handgun and tried to detain him.

“During the struggle, our officer was shot and the suspect was subsequently taken into custody without injury,” Harrison said. “We do know that a firearm was found on the scene, and it is unknown at this time whether our officers fired their weapons.”

Both officers were wearing body cameras, which were believed to have been activated. Harrison said police are in the process of reviewing the footage as part of the investigation.

“This speaks to the bravery and the courage of our officers,” Harrison said. “During very tough tumultuous times, in spite of all that’s going on here, and everywhere in the country, the members of the Baltimore Police Department continue to serve, continue to protect and continue to do what is necessary to keep the people of Baltimore safe.”

At a press conference, Baltimore Mayor Jack Young said the incident shows that officers have a “tough job,” especially as people are debating defunding the police.

“I fully support our police officers who come to work every day and put their lives on the line to make sure we’re safe in the city of Baltimore,” Young said. “I’m just looking forward to a speedy recovery from this officer.”

Young also called for an end to gun violence in the city.

“I’m asking those who are carrying guns in the city of Baltimore to put the guns down and let’s find other means of settling our disputes without shooting at police officers or shooting at others,” he said.

In a statement, City Council President Brandon Scott said: “My prayers are with the officer and his family now that he is out of surgery and begins his road to recovery.

“He deserves our respect and gratitude, as do all our brave officers who continue to put their lives on the line each day to protect our residents and our communities amidst this pandemic.”