Newark police opened fire on a man they said had a gun, sparking a shootout Friday.

Police said undercover officers were conducting surveillance in the neighborhood when they noticed an erratic driver. After the driver pulled into a driveway, the confrontation began, police said. Authorities said the man, Ryan Griggs, rammed a police car and drew a gun on the officers.

However, witnesses had differing stories. One said it appeared the police were defending themselves, while another said she believed police used excessive force.

Griggs was shot in the chest and arm and is in critical condition. Police said they found a gun in his car with three rounds that had been primed, but failed to fire.