Police shoot suspect after downtown Tucson shooting leaves nine injured
A suspect was shot by Tucson police early Sunday after a gunfire incident that wounded nine people; investigations are underway.
Police officers on foot patrol in downtown Tucson responded to gunshots around 2:00 a.m. on East Congress Street and North 6th Avenue. Upon arrival they encountered a male suspect fleeing the scene. After issuing multiple commands, a uniformed officer fired his service weapon, striking the suspect, who was taken to a hospital in critical condition.
The initial exchange resulted in nine people sustaining gunshot wounds, primarily to their arms and legs. Officers provided first aid before Tucson Fire Department personnel transported the victims to a local hospital. No officers were injured.
The Pima Regional Critical Incident Team has been activated, with the Pima County Sheriff’s Department leading the criminal investigation. The Tucson Police Department will conduct a parallel review of its policies, and findings will be forwarded to the Pima County Attorney’s Office.
"I’m heartbroken to learn that nine people were shot early this morning in downtown Tucson. Too many lives have been changed forever because of America’s gun violence crisis, in my hometown and across the nation. Mark and I are grateful for the bravery of Tucson’s first responders as we await more information and hold all those impacted in our hearts," said former Congresswoman Gabby Giffords.
"Last night, Tucson experienced another serious and senseless act of gun violence. A shooter recklessly began shooting in a crowded area striking nine people before being stopped by a Tucson Police Officer. Thanks to the quick actions and excellent care provided by our fire fighters and police officers, all victims were stabilized and taken to the hospital where we are hopeful they will all recover," Tucson Mayor Regina Romero said.
"In the early hours this morning, both the homicide phone and the officer-involved shooting phone went off among dedicated senior prosecutors at the Pima County Attorney’s Office. Our senior leadership is still assisting after a mass shooting downtown this morning, and a team of victim advocates has been dispatched to the hospital where we are hopeful that all nine shooting victims may survive," said Pima County Attorney Laura Conover.
Authorities are asking anyone with information or video of the incident to contact the police tip line, referencing case number 260719048. The investigation remains ongoing.