Durham, N.C. — Authorities were searching Monday evening for a black Nissan Altima and its driver, who police believe shot a North Carolina Highway Patrol trooper on U.S. Highway 70 in Durham.

The newer model Altima has 30-day North Carolina tags, and the driver was described as a white male in his 20s with blond hair and a short, military-style haircut.

Highway Patrol spokesman Sgt. Jeff Gordon said the trooper stopped the Altima on U.S. 70. When the trooper got out of his patrol car, he was struck with gunfire.

The shooter took off, heading west on U.S. 70.

The reason for the traffic stop was not released, but Gordon described it as routine.

All westbound lanes of the U.S. 70 are closed near Cheek Road while authorities are at the scene. Interstate 85 is also shut down in that area.

The trooper was taken to Duke University Hospital. His condition was not available.

It also wasn't clear how many times he was shot.

Anyone who sees the gunman or his vehicle is asked to dial *HP or 911.