GOODBEE, La. -- A deputy is recovering after being shot after a chase early Sunday morning.
Officials identified the officer as Deputy Justin Nail, with the Third District Criminal Patrol.
Just before 5 a.m. Sunday, deputies said they tried to stop a man they suspected of being involved in a number of car burglaries.
Officials said during the chase, the man crashed his vehicle into a ditch near Highway 1077 and Highway 190. That's when officials say gunfire was exchanged between the man and deputies.
The deputy is currently in the intensive care unit in stable condition, officials said. He underwent surgery after being shot.
The man deputies were chasing, 24-year-old Joseph Walden Johnson Jr. of Folsom, is dead. The cause of his death has not yet been determined.
The St. Tammany Parish Coroner, Dr. Charles Preston, said as part of their policy, they offer the family the opportunity to have an independent physician observe the autopsy when the case involved an officer-involved shooting. Johnson's family is considering that option, so the autopsy will be pending their decision, Preston said.
The head of the Covington Police Department, as well as the Plaquemines Parish Sheriff's Office and other area law enforcement agencies commented on the incident on Facebook, asking for prayers for the deputy.
St. Tammany Parish President Pat Brister released the following statement:
"Our thoughts and prayers are with the Sheriff's Deputy that was gravely injured in the line of duty overnight. His bravery is an inspiration to us all. I ask all of our citizens, of all congregations to pray for his speedy recovery, and comfort his family."
This story is developing and more information will be added as it is released.