Apache Junction Police officer in critical condition, suspect hurt following shooting

APACHE JUNCTION, Ariz. – An officer was critically injured and a suspect was hospitalized following a shooting in an Apache Junction neighborhood on Monday.

What we know:

Apache Junction Police say the incident happened on June 2 near Ironwood Drive and Elliot Road when police attempted a traffic stop. Someone reported having seen someone inside a car with a gun.

The suspect reportedly got out of the car during the stop. 

“The male was not complying with our verbal directions. We attempted less lethal ammunition toward him to try to gain compliance. At that time, he brandished his firearm and fired at police officers. They returned fire, striking him as well as one of our officers was struck by his gunfire towards us,” Apache Junction Police said.

That officer, who remains unidentified, was rushed to the hospital in life-threatening condition after he was struck in the upper torso/upper body area. He’s been with AJPD for three years.

The suspect, an unidentified man in his 30s, was taken to the hospital and underwent surgery. His condition is unknown.

What’s next:

The East Valley Critical Response Team is investigating this shooting, with the Mesa Police Department being the lead agency. 

Map of where the incident happened

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