In a move to combine law enforcement with medical readiness, the Arizona Department of Public Safety (AZDPS) has introduced a Tactical Medical Extraction Vehicle (TMEV), a first of its kind, engineered to navigate the precarious bridge between crisis scenes and medical care. According to the AZDPS, the TMEV is adapted for use in a variety of challenging situations including officer-involved shootings, SWAT operations, and difficult terrain rescues.

The TMEV, stemming from the vision of AZDPS Trooper/Paramedic Eric Tarr with support from Trooper/Paramedic Russ Dodge, is designed to quickly and safely extract patients from active or remote locations. It houses equipment for Advanced Life Support, including items such as oxygen, a cardiac monitor, and a dedicated area for a standard stokes litter, as per the AZDPS. 

Equipped with 4-wheel drive, the TMEV possesses the capability to reach rugged areas that are often out of reach for standard ambulances. Operated by troopers, these vehicles can also make their way into active scenes where it is usually deemed too dangerous for regular medical personnel, providing a significant upgrade in response time and patient care under fire.

The benefits of TMEV extend beyond human patients, as detailed by the AZDPS. It can also be used to transport injured law enforcement or search and rescue canines and their handlers directly to veterinary hospitals. This duality of purpose underscores a comprehensive view of the term 'officer,' inclusive of the four-legged variety who often risk just as much in the line of duty.