On Wednesday evening, Phoenix police responded to a critical incident in the Maryvale neighborhood, near the intersection of 75th Avenue and Sells Drive, just north of Indian School Road. Officers arrived at approximately 7:15 p.m. and encountered a woman walking in the street while visibly carrying a handgun.

Police attempt to de‑escalate

According to Phoenix Police Sgt. Chris Berrelleza, officers first tried to make contact and order the woman to drop the weapon. When she did not comply, an officer deployed a less‑lethal launcher. Two additional officers then fired their rifles and handguns, striking the woman and causing her to fall to the ground.

Custody and medical care

Because the firearm remained within the woman’s reach, a team of officers and a K9 unit were called in to secure the weapon and take her into custody. The woman was transported to a local hospital for treatment of her gunshot injuries; her condition remains unknown at this time. No officers were injured during the incident.

Evidence recovered

Sgt. Berrelleza confirmed that a handgun was recovered at the scene. The Arizona Department of Public Safety’s Major Incident Division has been assigned to investigate the circumstances surrounding the shooting, ensuring a thorough and transparent review.

Context of officer‑involved shootings

This incident marks the 42nd officer‑involved shooting in Maricopa County for the current year and the 72nd such incident statewide. Crime tape and police vehicles were observed blocking the surrounding streets as investigators processed the scene.

Community response

Neighbors captured video showing officers commanding the woman to drop her weapon before shots were heard. Additional footage shows a K9 being released as the woman lay on the sidewalk. While the community awaits the official investigation results, local leaders emphasize the importance of public safety and the need for law‑enforcement to act decisively when faced with an armed threat.

Next steps

The Major Incident Division will interview witnesses, review body‑camera footage, and assess whether department policies were followed. Findings will be made public in accordance with Arizona law, providing residents with clarity on the actions taken by their police force.

Original reporting: azfamily KTVK/KPHO Phoenix (news) — read the source article.