2 Police Officers Critically Hurt in Modesto Shootout

Two Modesto police officers were critically injured Friday during a shootout at a jewelry store, and a car full of suspects fled the scene, leaving behind a dead accomplice.

The names of the officers--both veterans--were not immediately released. They were taken to local hospitals as police launched a search for a getaway car that had a woman at the wheel.

The gunfire began after a patrol officer and detective responded to a call from Gabriel Jewelers, located in a strip mall on a heavily traveled street that runs northeast through Modesto.

“Multiple shots were exchanged between the officers and the suspects,” said police spokesman Kelly Huston.

One suspect was killed inside the store. At least three others were seen fleeing the scene in an older model Chevy, black with a red pinstripe, Huston said.