Two Greek police officers under investigation over the shooting of a 20-year-old man during a high-speed pursuit have been granted an additional 24 hours to prepare their defense.

The officers appeared before judicial authorities on Friday and requested more time until Saturday, citing the complexity of the case and the need to review critical documents. According to Greece’s public broadcaster ERT, their lawyer said the defense rejects the allegation that the officers acted with possible intent.

The incident occurred during a prolonged police chase that ended with the 20-year-old suffering a gunshot wound to the head. The victim remains in critical but stable condition.

Speaking to broadcaster MEGA, Greek Police spokesperson Konstantina Dimoglidou said a forensic medical examination of the injured man will be crucial in determining exactly how he was wounded.

“The forensic examination has not yet been carried out because of his condition, which is understandable,” she said. “However, it is essential in order to clarify the circumstances of his injury.”

Dimoglidou also confirmed that shell casings recovered at the scene indicate the shots were fired from police weapons, while noting that ballistic tests are expected to determine which firearm discharged the bullet.

She argued that there is no evidence suggesting the officers intended to injure or kill the young man, describing both as experienced officers with long service records and no previous disciplinary issues.

According to the police account cited by Dimoglidou, the pursuit lasted approximately 35 minutes. During that time, the driver attempted twice to run over police officers, rammed four police vehicles, and ignored repeated warnings and orders to stop.

The investigation remains ongoing as authorities await the results of the forensic and ballistic examinations, which are expected to play a key role in determining the circumstances of the shooting.