PHILADELPHIA (CBS) – A suspect, who was wanted in connection with the murder of a 24-year-old man earlier this month, is in critical condition after being shot during a struggle with a Philadelphia police officer Friday afternoon.

The incident happened at about 2:40 p.m. at 32nd and Oxford Streets in North Philadelphia.

According to investigators, the incident began as a routine traffic stop. At some point during the stop, police say a struggle occurred between the officer and a suspect inside the car. Police say the suspect, identified as Maceo Emerson Waring of the 100 block of South Paxon Street, tried to grab the officer’s gun.

The officer was forced to open fire and struck the Waring in the chest, thigh and side. He was taken to Temple University Hospital where he is listed in critical but stable condition. The officer was not injured during the struggle.

Police say Waring was wanted in connection with the murder of Naeem Giles who was found the night of September 10th on the 4600 block of Horrock Street, suffering from multiple gunshot wounds to his torso.

Friday’s shooting remains under investigation.