Early Tuesday morning, Mesa Police Department officers responded to a traffic violation near the intersection of University Drive and Extension Road. Detective Robert Katz reported that after the driver was initially questioned, the individual accelerated away, prompting a brief pursuit.
Chase and shooting
Officers located the fleeing vehicle less than a mile away at the corner of 6th Street and Country Club Drive. When the driver exited the vehicle and began running, two Mesa officers discharged their firearms, striking the suspect. He was pronounced dead at the scene. A firearm was recovered next to the victim, and investigators are still determining whether the man pointed the weapon at officers.
Police statement
Detective Katz told reporters, “What I can tell you at this time is that two officers discharged their firearms, and a firearm was located next to the person on the ground.” He added that the investigation is ongoing and that the incident appears to be isolated, with no current threat to the community.
Road closures and public safety
Southbound Country Club Drive is closed from 6th Street to 5th Street, and 6th Street west of Country Club is also shut down while investigators process the scene. Residents are asked to avoid the area and follow detour signage. Video captured by Arizona’s Family shows officers with weapons drawn and a police helicopter circling the neighborhood.
Further investigation
The Mesa Police Department is working with the East Valley Critical Incident Response Team (EVCIRT) from Gilbert Police to determine the full circumstances surrounding the shooting, including the presence of additional occupants in the vehicle. Katz emphasized that the department’s initial investigation suggests no ongoing danger.
Context
This incident marks the 40th officer‑involved shooting in Maricopa County and the 69th in the state of Arizona for the year, underscoring the challenges law‑enforcement faces in protecting public safety while upholding constitutional rights. The department’s swift response and transparent communication reflect its commitment to accountability and community reassurance.
Media inquiries are being directed to the Mesa Police Public Information Office, and reporters are asked to stage on 5th and Country Club.
Original reporting: azfamily KTVK/KPHO Phoenix (news) — read the source article.
