Police: Officer Shot During Robbery Attempt

An off-duty New York City police officer was shot in the hand during an attempted robbery yesterday on Long Island, police officials said.

The 25-year-old officer, who was not identified, was sitting in his car in New Cassel about 4 a.m. when a man with a handgun approached him, police said.

During a struggle the gun fired, striking the officer in the left hand. He was brought to Nassau County Medical Center, where he was treated and released.

The perpetrator was described as a black male wearing dark clothing. Nassau County police ask that anyone with a tip call 1-800-244-TIPS.