A Forest Park police officer shot and killed a hit-and-run suspect as he drove a stolen car toward the officer Friday evening, authorities said.

The shooting happened around 6:15 p.m. near the intersection of Jackson Boulevard and Central Avenue along the border with Oak Park, according to a statement released by Deputy Police Chief Michael Keating.

The officer spotted a car that had been reported stolen in Glendale Heights and had been involved in a hit-and-run accident in Chicago, Keating said in the release.

“The vehicle turned back eastbound on Jackson in an attempt to elude the officer,” Keating said. “As the Forest Park officer approached the vehicle on foot, the suspect vehicle began driving towards the officer, who was in front of the vehicle.”

The officer fired into the car and hit the driver, who was pronounced dead at the scene, according to Keating.

A witness told WGN-TV that he heard five loud shots and didn't see the driver move after he was removed from the car.

The Illinois state police said it was investigating the incident. No other details were available.

Check back for updates.

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