Yavapai County Deputy Steps In After Tragic Domestic Violence Shooting

PRESCOTT, Ariz. — A tragic series of incidents in Yavapai County has left a husband and wife dead following a domestic violence situation. Law enforcement authorities report the events unfolded early Tuesday morning in the Wildwood Estates community.

According to the Yavapai County Sheriff’s Office (YCSO), multiple residents called 911 around 9 a.m. reporting gunshots and aggressive yelling. A woman fled from her estranged husband after being shot and sought refuge at a neighbor’s home. Her husband then pursued her but was shot and killed by a retired reserve deputy who lived nearby.

A YCSO dispatcher recounted the chaos of that morning, stating, “Multiple callers heard yelling and screaming and what appears to be two gunshots.” This alarming situation prompted immediate police response.

The reserve deputy who intervened was recognized as a respected member of the community. According to YCSO, he discharged his weapon to neutralize the threat posed by the husband. Tragically, both individuals succumbed to their injuries.

Sheriff David Rhodes commented on the incident, emphasizing the dedication of law enforcement officers, stating, “This incident is a stark reminder of the dedication from our men and women in uniform on and off duty.” He expressed gratitude to those who put their lives at risk to protect the community.

The Arizona Department of Public Safety (DPS) is now leading the investigation due to the involvement of a law enforcement officer in the shootings. The identity of the reserve deputy has not yet been disclosed, and it remains unclear whether he is in police custody.

DPS has opted not to comment further on the ongoing investigation, maintaining standard protocol in such sensitive cases.