Explosive Device Kills Police Officer During Oviedo Standoff

MADRID — A Spanish police officer was killed and another seriously injured Tuesday when an explosive device detonated as officers responded to a shooting in the northern city of Oviedo, according to the National Police.

Authorities have stated there is no indication the explosion was terror-related.

Police are searching for a suspect who fled the apartment building where officers discovered a backpack containing the bomb. The device was found in a stairwell after police responded to reports of gunfire.

The backpack exploded while the bomb squad was attempting to remove it from the building, police said.

Upon arriving at the scene, officers found a woman who had been shot by the suspect. She is being treated at a local hospital, and her life is not believed to be in danger.

The deceased officer was a member of the canine unit, while the injured officer, who remains hospitalized, served on the bomb squad.

Spanish government spokesperson Elma Sáiz conveyed the administration’s condolences for the fallen officer.

“I also want to send a message of support for the recovery of the officer who was seriously injured during the explosion,” Sáiz said.

The Spanish news agency EFE reported that the suspect has a record of petty crime.

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