San Jose police officer opens fire on suspect in parking lot

SAN JOSE -- A police officer shot at a suspect who drove at the officer early Saturday morning in a San Jose parking lot, police said.

Just after midnight two officers were patrolling in the 1700 block of Oakland Road when they saw a red Mazda Miata, which they had tried to stop for reckless driving.

As officers approached the vehicle, the driver of the Mazda put the car in reverse and accelerated toward one of the officers.

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That officer opened fire on the suspect who escaped arrest and appears to have escaped injury.

Police said they checked area hospitals for anyone who walked in with a gunshot wound and no one had.

Neither officer was injured.

Police said the suspect appears to be a Hispanic man in his early 20s. The Mazda had a black convertible top and paper license plates.

The officer who opened fire was placed on paid administrative leave.

Police said the department's homicide unit is investigating the case.

The investigation is being monitored by the Police Department's internal affairs unit, the city attorney's office and the Office of the Independent Police Auditor.

Anyone with information about the case is being asked to call Detective Sgt. Raul Martinez or Detective Brian Meeker at (408) 277-5283.

People wishing to stay anonymous can call Crime Stoppers at (408) 947-7867. Anyone who provides information leading to the arrest and conviction of a suspect may receive a cash reward.