Crime & Safety
Quartzsite Police Officer Shot, Suspect Killed In Exchange
The officer was responding to a report of an arsonist fleeing the scene of a fire.
QUARTZSITE, AZ – A Quartzsite police officer is recovering Wednesday after being shot by a suspected arsonist. That man was then shot and killed by troopers from the Arizona Department of Public Safety.
The incident started around 10:40 p.m., Tuesday night, when officers were told that two homes had been set on fire. One of the callers was able to provide a description of the suspect and his car.
Quartzsite police officers along with troopers from the Department of Pubic Safety started searching for the man.
Find out what's happening in Phoenixfor free with the latest updates from Patch.
Around one hour later, the man was located by the Burger King near Exit 17. (Get Phoenix Patch's daily newsletter and real-time news alerts. Or, find your local Patch here and subscribe).
The man opened fire, striking one of the officers.
Find out what's happening in Phoenixfor free with the latest updates from Patch.
While one trooper dragged the officer to safety and tried to stop the bleeding, another trooper returned fire. The man was able to flee but soon ended up confronted by troopers who tried to get him to surrender.
The man was refused and was shot and killed.
Troopers found rifles, a handgun, and ammunition in his car.
The investigation continues. No names of anyone involved have been released.
Like us on Facebook. Also, download the free Patch iPhone app or free Patch Android app.
File photo via Quartzsite Police Department.
Get more local news delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for free Patch newsletters and alerts.
