Washington DC police officer shot and killed while retrieving gun from storm drain

DC Police Officer Wayne David died Wednesday night after suffering an accidental gunshot wound while trying to retrieve a gun from a storm drain, police said.

Officers were responding to reports of a suspicious vehicle when a man jumped out of a car, ran onto I-295 and placed the firearm in a storm drain, ABC News has learned. The suspect then fled on the back of a motorcycle.

When police attempted to retrieve the gun, it went off, hitting David, a 25-year police veteran, in the upper torso. Other officers came to David’s aid and transported him to a local hospital.

D.C. Police Executive Deputy Chief Jeffery Carroll told reporters earlier in the day that David — a crime scene investigator — was “trained in evidence and firearms recovery” and had recovered “hundreds of weapons” during his career.

Washington DC Police Chief Pamela A. Smith said in a statement: “Our hearts are heavy tonight after the tragic loss of one of our own.”

“MPD veteran Investigator Wayne David lost his life in the line of duty. There are few words to express the pain and suffering Officer David’s family and the entire MPD are feeling at this time.”

“Investigator David was the epitome of a great police officer. He was a dedicated and highly respected member of the department, and this is a tremendous loss for all of us.”

“For more than 25 years, Investigator David dedicated his life to protecting and safeguarding the District of Columbia. He served with passion and honor and had the highest respect of his peers.”

“I will be forever grateful to Detective David for his service to the Metropolitan Police Department and his life will never be forgotten,” the statement read.

Police are still searching for the suspect who dropped the weapon and said there is no indication the man knew the motorcyclist he fled on. The department released an image of the suspect.

ABC News’ Beatrice Peterson contributed to this report.