SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (AP) — A Massachusetts police officer struck by gunfire nearly two years ago when he was caught in the crossfire of two men shooting at each other has retired because of the injuries he sustained, authorities said.

Officer Edwin Irizarry, a 14-year veteran of the Springfield Police Department, retired last week, department spokesperson Ryan Walsh told Masslive.com.

Irizarry was struck twice on April 14, 2019 outside a city nightclub where he and another officer were working a private security detail. He was struck once in the elbow, and another bullet grazed his arm. The other officer was not injured.

Irizarry managed to return fire but he never returned to active duty.

The suspect has pleaded not guilty to several charges including two counts of assault with intent to murder. His trial is pending.

“Officer Irizarry showed great courage that morning when he attempted to break up a large disturbance when he was shot. That incident is just another example of the dangers of this profession as our officers continue to do their job under stressful conditions to keep our community safe,” Commissioner Cheryl Clapprood said in a statement.

Mayor Domenic Sarno thanked Irizarry for his service to the city.