OSP: Ballistic vest saved life of shot OSP trooper

(Update: Suspect arraigned, trooper identified; OSP says vest saved is life)

EUGENE, Ore. (AP) – The Creswell man arrested in the shooting of an Oregon State Police trooper has been charged with attempted murder, while OSP officials said Wednesday the trooper’s ballistic vest likely saved his life.

Court records show 30-year-old Edward Dungan also faces charges of felon in possession of a firearm, unauthorized use of a vehicle and reckless driving.

Lane County prosecutors say Senior Trooper Gerald Ellis, an eight-year veteran assigned to the Springfield OSP office, was shot Tuesday afternoon in Creswell after having pulled over a stolen Toyota Camry. He was wearing a protective vest and his injuries were not considered life-threatening.

“We believe at this time his ballistic vest saved his life, as he only received minor injuries,” OSP Capt. Bill Fugate said.

Dungan was arraigned Wednesday in Eugene and a preliminary hearing is set for next week. Court records do not list the name of a defense attorney.

Police say the trooper returned fire and the suspect apparently was not hit.

They said Dungan fled, and later was taken into custody.

Authorities say the shooter’s car was found near the scene of the shooting.