A Phoenix police officer is in serious condition after being shot several times by at least one suspect during a traffic stop early Wednesday. The officer did not return fire, police said.

Police were actively searching for the suspect or suspect responsible for shooting the officer.

Phoenix Police Chief Joseph Yahner said Wednesday the officer could be dead if he wasn’t wearing his bulletproof vest.

"Thank goodness he was wearing his (body armor) vest," he added.

Officer in serious condition after traffic stop shooting near 12th St. and Campbell. #abc15. Shot multiple times. pic.twitter.com/6pRUVbvf0d

— Nick VinZant (@NickVinZant) September 16, 2015

Despite being serious condition on Wednesday, officials said the unidentified officer is expected to survive the attack.

It wasn’t immediately clear why the officer initiated the traffic stop or what may have sparked the shooting.

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