Police officer shot in East Orange; saved by bulletproof vest

EAST ORANGE (WABC) -- A veteran East Orange police sergeant is recovering after being shot Wednesday during a confrontation with a suspect.

The shooting happened along North Oraton Parkway near New Street shortly after 11 a.m.

Authorities say Sgt. Mike Williams attempted to stop 29-year-old Robert O'Neil, who was riding a bicycle.

The officer returned fire and O'Neil fled the scene, but Williams used his radio to alert other officers and O'Neil was soon captured.

"After being shot, Sergeant Williams had the wherewithal to relay information and direction of flight of the suspect. We did have units respond to the scene. We were able to cordon off the area immediately and the apprehension was made," said East Orange Police Director Bill Robinson.

The bullet, which struck in the stomach area, was stopped by the officer's bullet resistant vest and has not punctured the skin, officials said.

Eyewitness News has learned Williams' partner drove him to University Hospital in Newark, where he was treated and released Wednesday night.

O'Neil, of East Orange, is facing multiple charges, including attempted murder and unlawful possession of a weapon. He also had an outstanding warrant.

Williams joined the East Orange police department in 2002.