Gila River Police Department Officer Joshua Briese was shot and killed early Saturday as police responded to a violent disturbance. Five others, including another officer, also were shot.
Officer Briese had been with the department for less than a year and was still on Field Training.
According to the Gila River Police Department (GRPD) at approximately 2:00 a.m., Gila River Public Safety Dispatch received an emergency call for service regarding a disturbance at a home in Santan, District 4 of the Gila River Indian Community.
GRPD officers responded. As the responding officers worked to address the disturbance, which involved a large crowd, multiple gunshots were fired. Two GRPD officers were struck by gunfire, as were four individuals at the scene.
The injured officers and individuals were immediately taken to local hospitals.
The second injured officer remains in serious but stable condition. At least one other individual has been pronounced deceased. All the injured are being treated at area hospitals.
“Our hearts and prayers are with these police officers, their families, and everyone impacted by this tragic incident,” shared GRPD on Facebook. “The Gila River Police Department is working with the Federal Bureau of Investigation to conduct a joint investigation of the incident. More information will be forthcoming as the investigation progresses.”
I hope it was a very long and painful ride to the station if they have someone in custody.