A police-involved shooting has left one suspected shoplifter dead near 35th Avenue and Roosevelt Street in Phoenix, with the incident causing disruptions in the local community, including a delayed start for Carl Hayden High School. The violent confrontation unfolded just before midnight when an officer was waved down by an employee from a nearby convenience store, as ABC15 reported.
The suspects fled as the officer approached to investigate the shoplifting claim, sparking a foot chase. The man being pursued drew a handgun and opened fire on the officer, prompting an exchange of gunfire. Struck at least once by the officer, the suspect was apprehended and subsequently died from his injuries at a hospital. Caught in the crossfire, the officer's patrol car was hit several times, but, miraculously, no officers were reported injured, according to the same report by ABC15.
This incident marks the 23rd police shooting reported in the Valley and the seventh involving Phoenix police in 2024. The aftermath of the shooting has necessitated a shutdown of the area surrounding 35th Avenue, leading to traffic advisories for local drivers to seek alternative routes. Meanwhile, Carl Hayden High School, located near the scene, has postponed the start of classes to 11 a.m. and advised students to access the campus using the south entrance, as per a statement provided to 12News.
While details of the deceased suspect remain withheld, the police are still on the lookout for the second individual involved in the initial shoplifting incident. In light of these developments, Carl Hayden High School is taking precautions to ensure the safety and well-being of its students and staff. "The incident occurred in the vicinity of 35th Ave southbound and Roosevelt St, resulting in the closure of these areas," the high school stated in communication with 12News, also assuring that "there are no safety concerns for our campus" despite the ongoing police investigation. Local authorities are expected to provide further updates as the investigation progresses.
