Steven Vincent Update: Louisiana State Trooper Shot During Traffic Stop Is Critical, Officials Say ‘It Doesn’t Look Good’

Steven Vincent was shot in the head while conducting a traffic stop in Louisiana, and authorities say the Louisiana State Trooper is now in critical but stable condition at a nearby hospital.

The 43-year-old officer, a 13-year veteran of the state police, had pulled over a motorist who was reported for driving in an unsafe manner. Vincent arrived to find the vehicle in a ditch. At some point the driver reportedly opened fire, striking Vincent in the head.

The trooper was rushed to Lake Charles Memorial Hospital, KPLC TV reported.

Though Steven Vincent was officially listed in stable condition, those close to him indicated that the situation is still quite dire.

“It doesn’t look good right now so we’re asking for prayers,” said Col. Mike Edmonson, head of the state police.

Edmonson also posted a message on the state police Facebook page calling for prayers.

The entire LSP family is requesting your thoughts and prayers following the shooting of a Louisiana State Police Trooper in the Lake Charles area.

The incident occurred as the Trooper conducted a traffic stop on a suspected impaired driver and was shot during the course of the interaction. The suspect was subsequently detained by passing motorists as additional citizens rendered aid to the Trooper until assistance arrived on the scene.

Further information and the Trooper’s identity and status will be forthcoming as the investigation continues.

Please take a moment from your Sunday afternoon to send prayers and well wishes to the Trooper and his family in this critical time.

After Vincent was shot, a number of drivers pulled over to help the wounded trooper and even used his radio to call for help. Motorists also wrestled suspect Kevin Daigle to the ground, and used Vincent’s handcuffs on him.

“It was pandemonium out here,” Sgt. James Anderson told the New York Daily News.

Anderson added that the quick work of the motorists was a blessing.

“We’re so thankful for them,” Anderson added. “They arrived on scene and called for assistance for the trooper.”

Steven Vincent is part of a family tradition of law enforcement and the armed services. He has one brother who is a police chief in Louisiana and another who is a state trooper. The family also supports causes for veterans, including running in Wounded Warrior Project marathons.

“Coming from a family of veterans, running for the ones that didn’t make it home, or are disabled is a good cause to run for,” Vincent told the Lake Charles American Press in 2013.

Steven Vincent is married and has a 9-year-old son.

[Image via Inquisitr]