Oregon officer critically wounded

Associated Press

PORTLAND, Ore.

A Christmas Day shooting that left a woman dead triggered a car chase and gunbattle in suburban Portland that critically wounded an Oregon State Police officer and killed the slaying suspect, who had a troubled home life, authorities and court records said.

Trooper Nic Cederberg, 32, an Army veteran who has been with the department for seven years, underwent surgery Monday and remains in critical condition, state police said on their Facebook page.

The incident began when police in King City found the woman’s body after responding to a call about shots being fired late Sunday, Washington County sheriff’s Sgt. David Thompson said.

The suspect, James Tylka, 30, was seen driving away, and officers pursued him, police said. The chase ended with an exchange of gunfire about 20 miles south of Portland.

Authorities did not release other information about the chase and shootout, except that officers from three police departments were involved and have been placed on paid administrative leave, a routine move.

But details emerged about Tylka’s problems at home. He was locked in a protracted dispute with his former wife over custody of their son and child-support payments, according to court records.

Social media and court records indicate he was married to Kate Armand and that the couple had a baby girl.

Tylka posted a photo on Facebook early this month of the couple kissing in happier times and commented: “We aren’t divorced.” Someone responded that she hoped they work things out.

Police have not released the name of the woman he is believed to have killed, but Megan Armand told media outlets that the victim was her sister, Kate.

“We are still in shock and devastated from last night’s events,” she said in a statement. “My heart is broken from the loss of my only sister. Our thoughts and prayers are also with the wounded OSP officer and his family.”