A Columbiana police officer was shot while responding to a call early Thursday morning.

Officer Jeff Bowers was grazed near his hip, according to Mayor Allan Lowe. He is being treated at Shelby Baptist Medical Center.

Two people of interest are being held for questioning, Lowe said. Their identities weren’t released pending formal charges.

Bowers was shot while exiting his police car shortly after 3 a.m. The officer was responding to a patrol request on Downing Drive, which is off Egg and Butter Road.

There was an exchange of gunfire, Lowe said. No other injuries were reported.

“I’m very thankful that the officer was not injured more,” said Lowe. “Please continue to pray for the officer and our police department.”

Several other agencies responded to investigate the shooting, including the Shelby County Sheriff’s Office and the Montevallo Police Department.