MONACA (KDKA) — The investigation continues today after a shooting behind a gas station in Beaver County Wednesday afternoon left a police officer injured.

Damontae Williams, 19, of Aliquippa, is facing charges of robbery, attempted homicide, aggravated assault and weapons violations.

He is accused in the robbery of a Cricket store and in the shooting of the Monaca police officer. Police say Williams was armed with a revolver and a semi-automatic.

“I’m not going to speculate his mindset, but let’s face reality. He shot the police officer unprovokedly,” said Lt. Eric Hermick, of the Pennsylvania State Police. “I would make no doubts about it that his intent was to kill the officer and get away.”

State police say that Williams robbed the Cricket store in Center Township. A getaway driver remained in the vehicle, according to police, and sped off following the robbery.

When the vehicle was spotted by police a short time later, Williams jumped out of the car, leading to a foot pursuit.

Monaca Police Officer Alan Shaffer made contact with Williams in an alley behind the CoGo’s in Monaca, when Williams allegedly began shooting.

“The suspect at some point turned and fired at the officer. By all accounts, he fired on the officer first and struck the officer in the lower torso,” said Lt. Hermick. “The officer returned fire until, at which time, the suspect surrendered.”

The getaway driver was found Wednesday night and brought in for questioning.

State police, who are now leading the investigation, say that after speaking with the District Attorney, the driver is not being charged.

KDKA’s Heather Abraham reports that he is cooperating with police and serving as a witness.

Officer Shaffer was treated and released from a local hospital.

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