UPDATE 12:49 p.m.

Police are clearing homes in the area of Manono and Leilani streets in Hilo as they search for the armed and dangerous suspect wanted in connection with the shooting of a police officer. Please avoid the area.

PREVIOUSLY 12:26 p.m.

According to Hawaii Police Chief Benjamin Moszkowicz, the wounded officer, who is assigned to the East Hawaii Vice Section, is in serious condition at Hilo Benioff Medical Center.

“He has a head injury,” Moszkowicz said shortly after noon. “He’s awake, he’s alert.”

According to Moszkowicz, police received information that Lucrisia, who was wanted, was in the area of the bank. He said without any prior conversation, Lucrisia shot at least twice and hit the officer.

The chief said another officer returned fire, but it’s not known whether or not that officer hit the suspect.

Moszkowicz said it’s believed Lucrisia is on foot in the Waiakea Houselots Area, near the corner of Manono and Leilani streets, and police are attempting to apprehend him there.

The public is reminded not to approach Lucrisia, as he is considered armed and dangerous.

PREVIOUSLY

Police are searching for a male suspect involved in the shooting of a police officer this morning at First Hawaiian Bank near the Prince Kuhio Plaza.

Suspect is identified as 39-year-old Christopher Lucrisia, who is described by police as 5 feet 10 inches tall, 250 pounds, green eyes, black hair. Police said he is Puerto Rican.

Lucrisia is suspected shooting the police officer two times.

Lucrisia fled the scene as a passenger in a white Chevy pickup truck, licence plate number ZLD014, headed in the direction of the airport. The driver of the pickup truck is also male.

Lucrisia is considered armed and dangerous. Do not approach. If seen, please call 911.

This story will be updated.