A Mariposa man faces multiple felony charges after a violent series of events Wednesday in Oakhurst, where he allegedly rammed vehicles, shot a sheriff’s K9, and was injured in a gunfire exchange with deputies, the Madera County Sheriff’s Office said in a statement.

Related Story: Madera County Shooting Strikes K-9, Investigation Ongoing

Authorities reported that the incident began shortly after 3:30 p.m. when a stolen vehicle was recognized by its owner near Highway 49 and State Route 41.

The owner of the stolen vehicle called 911, providing dispatchers with updates on the vehicle’s location. During the pursuit, the suspect, identified by authorities as Allen Scott Williams, 41, of Mariposa, reportedly rammed the owner’s car.

Suspect Avoids Spike Strips by Going Off-Road

Deputies set up a perimeter to deploy spike strips. Before reaching the blockade, Williams drove off the road, abandoned the vehicle, and fled on foot.

Deputies pursued him down a long driveway, during which Williams shot and seriously injured K9 Obie with a shotgun. A gunfire exchange followed, leaving both Williams and the K9 injured.

Related Story: Fresno Repeat DUI Offender Gets 15 Years to Life for Murder

A deputy who is also an EMT provided medical care to Williams, who was flown to a Fresno hospital for treatment.

He is expected to recover and will face charges including probation violations, felon in possession of ammunition, and felony assault with a deadly weapon, along with new charges stemming from Wednesday’s incident, authorities said.

K9 Obie was transported to an emergency veterinary clinic where X-rays revealed his body was full of shotgun pellets. While the pellets will remain in his body, Obie is expected to recover after an extensive rehabilitation process, though he will remain hospitalized for several days.

Related Story: Tulare Gang Member Gets Life Without Parole for 2022 Murders

Sheriff Praises Deputies for Acting Swiftly

Madera County Sheriff Tyson Pogue commended his team’s swift action, crediting Obie’s bravery with potentially saving lives.

“I want to commend the swift and decisive response of our deputies, whose actions prevented further danger to the Oakhurst community. Apprehending a dangerous criminal like Williams is a testament to their dedication to public safety. Our thoughts and prayers remain with our beloved K9 Obie as he recovers. Obie’s bravery and selfless service may very well have saved a deputy’s life, and we are profoundly grateful for his sacrifice and courage,” Pogue said.

The deputy-involved shooting is under investigation by the Madera Police Department and will be reviewed by the Madera County District Attorney’s Office. An internal administrative investigation is also underway, with involved personnel placed on standard administrative leave.

Williams remains hospitalized under supervision and will be booked into the Madera County Jail upon his release, authorities said.