By: Richard L. Smith
A 65-year-old Camden County man remains hospitalized after being shot multiple times by a police officer during an armed robbery at a CVS pharmacy in Gloucester Township Friday afternoon.
According to Camden County Prosecutor Grace C. MacAulay and Gloucester Township Police Chief Anthony Minosse, officers responded to the pharmacy in the 700 block of College Drive shortly after 4:15 p.m. on November 6.
Authorities said an officer entering the store encountered an armed suspect, identified as Michael Dougherty of Blackwood, who was allegedly in the process of committing a robbery.
Investigators said Dougherty pointed a firearm at the responding officer, prompting the officer to retreat, draw his service weapon and repeatedly order him to drop the gun.
Police said Dougherty continued advancing toward the officer, who opened fire, striking him several times.
A second officer assisted in taking Dougherty into custody and providing emergency medical aid before he was transported to Cooper University Hospital for treatment.
No officers or civilians were injured during the confrontation.
Investigators recovered two firearms, including one found beside Dougherty and another reportedly discovered on his person.
Dougherty faces several charges, including first-degree armed robbery, unlawful possession of weapons, possession of weapons for an unlawful purpose and aggravated assault for allegedly pointing a firearm at a law enforcement officer.
He remained hospitalized as of the prosecutor’s latest announcement.
The Camden County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crimes Unit is investigating the robbery, while its Special Prosecutions Unit is reviewing the police-involved shooting with guidance from the New Jersey Attorney General’s Office