A Greek police officer of the DIAS motorcycle unit involved in the shooting of a 16-year-old boy during a car chase in Thessaloniki early on Monday morning was charged with attempted manslaughter with possible intention.

According to the police, the pursuit began around 1am when police were informed that the minor had filled up a pick-up truck at a petrol station and left without paying.

Officers located the vehicle but the teen refused to stop and tried to flee, performing dangerous maneuvers. When he attempted to ram into a police motorcycle in front of him, the two officers shot him, causing the suspect to crash into a wall.

The driver underwent lengthy surgery to remove a bullet from his head and was then admitted to an ICU at Ippokratio hospital. His condition is reported as serious. He was also charged with attempted manslaughter with intent.

Soon after, riot police officers were involved in clashes outside of the Ippokratio hospital treating the teen who was shot a by police officer earlier on the day. Bottles and chairs were thrown at the officers, while they responded with the use of chemical gas.