Pennsylvania State Police investigate traffic stop, officer-involved shooting in Allentown

Following the shooting, the driver fled the scene and drove onto South Carlisle Street.

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Tuesday, June 20, 2023
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ALLENTOWN, Pennsylvania (WPVI) -- A suspect is facing charges following an officer-involved shooting in Lehigh County on Friday.

Paris Bartlett, 47, of Allentown, is facing a slew of charges, including aggravated assault - attempts to cause or causes bodily injury with deadly weapon.

The incident happened just after 5:30 p.m. near South 3rd and West Union streets in Allentown.

State troopers and local police officers were jointly conducting high-visibility proactive traffic enforcement throughout the city, officials say.

Troopers say a stop was conducted in the area for a traffic violation. At some point during the stop, officials say a trooper discharged two rounds from a handgun.

Police originally said Bartlett was hit by gunfire, but medical personnel later determined no one was struck by the bullets.

Following the shooting, Bartlett allegedly fled the scene and drove onto South Carlisle Street, where the car struck several other vehicles before coming to a final rest.

Officials say Bartlett was transported from the scene to Saint Luke's Hospital Fountain Hill for his injuries. He is now being held at the Lehigh County Jail on $200,000 bail.

A motorist who was struck by the driver was also transported to a local hospital for minor injuries.

This incident is being investigated by Pennsylvania State Police.

Authorities have not revealed what led to the gunfire.