The Phoenix Police Department released a Critical Incident Briefing video related to a death investigation from February 23, according to a March 9 statement. The incident occurred near 19th Avenue and Roeser Road after officers responded to reports of an aggravated assault.
The case is significant as it involves both the use of less-lethal force and a fatal shooting during an attempted apprehension. The department has advised that the attached video may contain strong language and graphic images, warning viewers about potentially disturbing content.
According to police, the situation began when a 911 caller reported that a man had pointed a gun at him in front of his children at a park. Officers arriving at the scene were directed toward the suspect, who was leaving on his bicycle. As officers followed in their vehicles and waited for backup, the man left his bicycle near 18th Avenue and Atlanta Avenue and ran toward a house. Officers pursued him on foot.
One officer used a 40 millimeter less-lethal launcher in an attempt to gain compliance, but it was ineffective. A second officer then tried to tackle the man; during this struggle, the man’s gun discharged, striking both himself and the officer. Additional officers arrived quickly and took the man into custody.
Police said they rendered aid until Phoenix Fire Department personnel arrived. The man was transported to a hospital where he died from his injuries. The officer sustained minor injuries from the gunfire and was later released from medical care.
The involved officer is assigned to the South Mountain Precinct with approximately seven years of service. Police stated that no outside agency is required for this investigation, which remains under administrative review by the department. Officials emphasized that conclusions regarding whether actions were consistent with policy or law will not be made until all facts are known.
