The Phoenix Police Department has released a Critical Incident Briefing video detailing an officer-involved shooting that took place on September 8, 2025, near 35th Avenue and Washington Street.
According to the department, the incident began when officers responded to a report of armed robbery in the area of 35th Avenue and Fillmore Street. The caller reported that a man had threatened her father with a gun and stolen his cell phone, providing a description of the suspect during the 911 call.
Officers located a vehicle matching the description at 35th Avenue and Washington Street. After stopping in a parking lot, officers gave commands to the driver, who was reportedly argumentative. A second patrol unit arrived, and after repositioning their vehicles, an officer-involved shooting occurred. The suspect attempted to drive forward but became stuck.
One officer used a less lethal pepper ball launcher against the vehicle with limited effect. Another officer then arrived with a rifle. Following use of the pepper ball launcher, police say the man raised his handgun, prompting the officer with the rifle to fire his weapon.
Police waited for additional resources before approaching and removing the man from his vehicle. Officers provided aid until Phoenix Fire Department personnel arrived and transported him to a hospital where he later died. No other injuries were reported.
The officers involved are assigned to patrol in the South Mountain Precinct and have between two and eight years of service with the department.
A criminal investigation is being conducted by the Major Incident Division of the Arizona Department of Public Safety and will be reviewed by the Maricopa County Attorney’s Office. An administrative investigation is also underway within the Phoenix Police Department.
“Conclusions about whether the actions of the officers are consistent with department policy and the law will not be made until all facts are known and the investigation is complete,” according to police officials.
