An officer shot and injured a "violent felon" Thursday evening in northwest Charlotte, Charlotte-Mecklenburg police said. The man was armed, according to police.

It happened just before 6:30 p.m. on W. Sugar Creek Road near Equipment Drive, just off of Interstate 85.

Police said officers were patrolling the area when they saw the suspect, who they knew was a convicted felon, with a gun.

"Upon making contact with the suspect, a brief struggle ensued," police said. "Officers perceived an imminent deadly threat, and one officer discharged their firearm striking the suspect. The suspect was in possession of two firearms; both were recovered on scene."

The man, whose name was not released, went to the hospital with serious injuries, according to police. No officers were hurt. 

Police said the suspect has "an extensive violent criminal history, including attempted murder and murder."

Anyone with additional information is asked to call 704-432-TIPS or Crime Stoppers at 704-334-1600.