Burglar got in altercation with cop before being shot in the cop’s home, prosecutor says

MANVILLE — Police have identified a man they say was shot by an off-duty police officer during an attempted burglary at the officer's home, and said the man may be connected to other crimes in the area as well.

Somerset County Prosecutor Michael H. Robertson said the man has been identified as 19-year-old Manville resident Tyreek Cook. The alleged burglar suffered a gunshot wound to the chest after an altercation with the officer, whose identity the prosecutor's office hasn't disclosed.

Robertson said after Cook was shot, the homeowner and responding officers began medical treatment before he was taken to a local trauma center for further care.

The officer was also taken to a hospital for what Robertson described as injuries he sustained during the altercation as well as "traumatic stress-related physical conditions." There was no update on the officer's condition, but Cook is listed in critical condition.

Robertson said in addition to the Manville Police Department, officers from the Somerset County Prosecutor's Office Major Crimes Unit and Crime Scene Investigations and Forensics unit responded to the scene.

Cook has been connected to other burglaries and attempted burglaries in the area and he investigation is still active and ongoing, Robertson said. He has been charged with third-degree burglary.

Authorities are asking anyone with information to contact the Somerset County Prosecutor's Office Major Crimes Unit at 908-231-7100, the Manville Police Department at 908-725-1900, or the Somerset County Crime Stoppers' Tip Line at 1-888-577-TIPS.

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Contact reporter Adam Hochron at 609-359-5326 or Adam.Hochron@townsquaremedia.com