In the early morning hours of October 7, 1993 while on general patrol, Constable Joseph MacDonald conducted a routine traffic stop. The two male occupants exited the vehicle and a violent physical altercation developed resulting in the exchange of gun fire. One of the suspects was struck by gunfire from Constable MacDonald but survived. Constable MacDonald was fatally wounded by gunshots to the back of his head while he lay helpless with his service revolver empty. The two male suspects fled the area in a vehicle with officers who had just arrived on the scene, in pursuit. After being boxed in by police, the two suspects exited the vehicle and a foot chase and further altercation ensued which resulted with both suspects being taken into police custody.