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SALT LAKE CITY — Two Salt Lake police officers were assaulted Friday while responding to a call of a woman who they say was throwing rocks at vehicles and breaking out windows.
Just before noon, a Gold Cross ambulance crew observed a woman who was walking into traffic near 200 S. State. Police said they later learned the woman had broken out windows at an apartment complex, a hotel and the windows of at least two vehicles, and was throwing rocks at cars.
Officers responded to the area and found the woman, 22, a short time later at Pioneer Park, about three blocks west of the original call.
Officers "began giving commands" to the woman who did not obey them, according to a statement from Salt Lake police. It was not immediately known Friday what commands the woman was given.
"Despite repeated commands, the suspect threw a rock at an officer, which hit the officer in the head. The officer deployed a Taser that was only partially effective," according to police.
As additional officers arrived, they physically fought with the woman until they were able to handcuff her, according to police.
The officer who was hit in the head with a rock suffered minor injuries, but he also suffered a broken finger, according to the statement. Police did not say Friday how the officer broke his finger. A second offer was bit on the hand by the woman while struggling with her. The injury was minor but did break the skin, according to police.
Both officers drove themselves to a local hospital to be evaluated.
"This was a rapidly unfolding and dangerous situation for our officers. I'm glad the injuries to our officers were not more serious. When this call came out, our officers responded quickly to protect the community around them and in the park and for that, I want to recognize their efforts," Chief Mike Brown said in a statement.
