COLUMBIA, S.C. (AP) - A Highway Patrol officer was shot three times during what started out as a routine traffic stop Saturday night. But his injuries do not appear life-threatening, according to Public Safety Department spokesman Sid Gaulden.

Sgt. James Sinkler had stopped a car in Kershaw County when the driver came out and shot the him, Gaulden said. Sinkler was hit twice in the chest, but was wearing a bullet-proof vest. "That saved his life," Gaulden said.

Sinkler was also shot in the hand, Gaulden said. Sinkler was taken to a hospital in Kershaw, where he was being treated. Gaulden said Sinkler's wounds did not sound like they were serious.

The suspect, who was shot by Sinkler and another officer who came upon the scene, was taken to Palmetto Richland Memorial. Gaulden did not know the individual's name or his condition.

He also said it was not yet known why the suspect chose to fire on Sinkler.