Man wounded by St. Louis police also faces criminal charges

ST. LOUIS -- A man who was shot by a St. Louis police officer was in serious but stable condition and faced criminal charges Monday.

The shooting happened around 1 a.m. in south St. Louis. Police responded to a call of gunfire. When they arrived, they approached Maurice Hoskins, 26, who reportedly had a gun in his belt. Officer William Moore told the man to put up his hands, but Hoskins allegedly reached for the gun instead. Moore fired twice, hitting Hoskins in the stomach and shoulder, police said.

Moore, 33, has been with the St. Louis Police Department since 1990. He was not hurt, and was placed on administrative leave; an internal investigation was under way.

Hoskins was charged with unlawful use of a weapon and possession of a defaced firearm.

Police said the serial number on his gun had been scratched out.