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Retired DPD assistant chief reacts to fallen officer: 'We're trained to go in, not retreat.'

Posted at 11:18 PM, Nov 21, 2019
and last updated 2019-11-21 23:26:17-05

DETROIT (WXYZ) — As police officers at Detroit's 12th Precinct mourn the loss of fallen officer Rasheen McClain, 46, community members and former law enforcement members are reacting to the tragic news.

Detroit retired Assistant Chief Steve Dolunt served for 31 years and recalls multiple officers who were killed in the line of duty.

"We're trained to go in not retreat," Dolunt said. "That's what you're trained to do it."

Four Detroit police officers descended on a home near Wyoming and Chippewa in search of a gunman on Wednesday around 7:20 p.m.

The man inside opened fire on the officers with a high-powered rifle, according to Detroit Police Chief James Craig.

Dolunt said it's the most terrifying moment on the job.

"You think is this it? Am I'm going to see my family again," Dolunt said.

Officer Rasheen McClain, a 16-year-veteran of the force, was shot and killed.

His partner, Phillippe Batoum-Bisse, was struck by a bullet in the leg and is expected to be OK. The other two officers retreated and later got into a gun battle outside the home with the suspect.

Dolunt said officers on the force now have the grueling task of dealing with the trauma.

"The officer that survived the shooting and the officer that responded to the scene are going to have a tough time for the next weeks, months, years," Dolunt said.

Funeral arrangements are pending for fallen Officer McClain. Count on 7 Action News to bring you updates on this developing story.