A police detective shot a suspected thief in an industrial section of Elizabeth near the New Jersey Turnpike Tuesday, authorities said.
Investigators said the suspect, 42-year-old Eric Gwaldis, was attempting to sell stolen batteries at the Metalico, Inc. scrap metal dealer when police responded. Gwaldis attempted to flee in his car with the driver's door open, and the door struck the detective, police said.
The detective fired two shots, hitting Gwaldis in the chest and arm. He was taken to UMDNJ Hospital in serious condition.
The detective was treeated and released from the hospital.
