A home invasion suspect was shot by an officer Wednesday morning, police said.

Police said Christopher Michael Fortson shot at them while running away from the scene at about 12:30 a.m.

Police said they were called after two cars showed up at the home on West Avenue and tried to rob the person who lived there.

Four people were outside the house and when police were questioning them, Fortson took off running, police said.

Officer Joshua Baswell chased after Fortson, who allegedly shot at the officer, officials said.

Baswell returned fire twice, hitting him at least once.

Baswell is on administrative leave, which is standard procedure when a shooting occurs.

Fortson was charged with assault with a deadly weapon on a law enforcement officer, attempted murder, conspiracy to commit robbery, armed robbery and first-degree burglary.

Police said they have charged four other people, Ryan Michael Sumpter, Ryan Christopher Munsey, Irving Alfonso Lopez and Bridget Nicole Bowen, in connection with the incident.

Police Chief Rodney Monroe said police had been looking at Fortson and the four other suspects in connection to other problems in the community. Police said what's even more disturbing is that officers found a small child in the car with the group. 

The child is reportedly in the custody of the Department of Social Services. 

While police believe group targeted the home, one man who lives there is not as sure. 

"I don't know for a fact that they were trying to rob me," said Brandon Mangum. 

Police have searched the home looking for answers as to why Fortson broke into the home and what led up to the shooting.

Fortson remains hospitalized at Carolinas Medical Center.  He will be transferred to jail after his release.