Phoenix Police Shoot Suspect Fleeing Traffic Stop After Reaching for Waistband

Phoenix police confirm that the suspect in a recent shooting incident has been pronounced dead, and no officers were injured.

PHOENIX — A man was shot and killed by police in west Phoenix early Saturday morning. The shooting happened after a brief chase when the suspect allegedly reached for his waistband. Two officers opened fire, leading to the suspect’s death.

The incident took place near 25th Avenue and Buckeye Road at 3:42 a.m. Police reported that the suspect was declared dead at the scene.

The sequence of events began at 3:35 a.m. when Phoenix police were dispatched to a different location in response to another shooting. According to Sergeant Rob Scherer, the suspect had fired multiple rounds in an area with multiple victims, though no injuries were reported at that site. However, an aggravated assault was confirmed.

Upon locating a vehicle and suspect matching the given descriptions, officers attempted a traffic stop. When the suspect fled from his vehicle and reached for his waistband, officers fired in response, resulting in the suspect’s death.

A comprehensive criminal and internal investigation is currently underway. The area will remain closed for several hours.

“These investigations require thoroughness and time,” said Scherer. “Once we leave, we can’t revisit the scene.”

Updates will be provided as additional information becomes available.

— Phoenix Police (@PhoenixPolice) August 10, 2024