MARICOPA, Ariz. — A Maricopa police officer was wounded and a suspect was fatally shot in a gunfire exchange outside a convenience store, AZ Central reported.
Body camera footage released from the incident shows the man firing several shots at officers before officers fired shots at him and struck him with a cruiser.
Incident overview
According to the Pinal County Sheriff’s Office, the suspect, a known felon with outstanding warrants, was exiting a Circle K when officers attempted to stop him. Bodycam footage shows the suspect tossing his merchandise before pulling a handgun and firing at an officer, striking him.
The wounded officer fell to the ground, yelling, “I’m hit! I’m hit!”
A second officer returned fire as the man attempted to flee. Meanwhile, two Maricopa detectives in an unmarked vehicle pursued the suspect, with one detective firing while the vehicle struck him.
The suspect was pronounced dead at the scene.
Suspect’s background
Authorities stated that the man had an extensive violent criminal history and was affiliated with major gangs, according to the report. Arizona Department of Corrections records show he had prior felony convictions, including aggravated assault, robbery, organized retail theft and discharging a firearm at a structure. He had been released from prison in January 2024.
Investigation and officer status
A Maricopa police officer and two detectives have been placed on paid administrative leave per department policy, according to the report. The detectives involved were not wearing body cameras.
Maricopa Police Chief Mark Goodman acknowledged the risks officers face daily.
“Thankfully, our officer survived, and their prognosis is positive. However, they sustained serious injuries that will take time to heal,” he said.
Maricopa Police said the wounded officer remains in serious but stable condition.
The Pinal County Sheriff’s Office is leading the investigation into the shooting, according to the report.
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