Four Tucson Police Officers Discharge Guns, Armed Tucson Man Killed

Tucson Police officers responded to the 100 block of N. Understory Lane in regards to a fight involving weapons on July 8, 2018, at approximately 12:11 a.m. Prior to arrival, officers learned a neighbor, 34-year-old Craig Yelton, had been upset by loud music and brandished a handgun at the other neighbors believed to be causing the noise.

Officers arrived on scene and made contact with the reporting party and also attempted to make contact with Yelton, who was armed with a handgun. Officers attempted to contact Yelton making announcements for him to exit his residence using the public address (PA) system.

A short time later, Yelton exited the residence and confronted the officers while armed with a handgun. Four officers discharged their weapons, striking Yelton. Yelton was pronounced deceased on scene.

Detectives are conducting the criminal portion of the investigation. The Office of Professional Standards is conducting a separate, parallel administrative investigation to examine the actions of department personnel. This is standard protocol in all officer-involved shootings. Additionally, representatives from the department’s Critical Incident Review Board will evaluate the response to this incident.

Anyone with additional information is asked to call 88-CRIME. You can remain anonymous.

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