Pima County team investigates Tucson traffic stop incident | Local News

TUCSON, Ariz. (KVOA) – Early Saturday morning, a routine traffic stop by Tucson Police Department’s Officer Joe Alvarez turned into a pursuit and subsequent investigation following an unexpected firearm discharge. The incident occurred around 1:00 a.m. when Officer Alvarez attempted to stop a 2002 Infiniti sedan near 22nd Street and Swan Road for multiple traffic violations.

The driver, identified as 55-year-old Timothy Welch, did not comply and continued to a parking lot near the 1200 block of South Craycroft Road. Once there, both occupants fled on foot. During the pursuit, Officer Alvarez unintentionally discharged his weapon, with the bullet striking his own vehicle’s windshield and ending up in the trunk of the Infiniti. Fortunately, no injuries were reported.

Welch was later apprehended and faces several charges, including Aggravated DUI and drug-related offenses. He is currently held at the Pima County Adult Detention Complex.

The Pima Regional Critical Incident Team (PRCIT) has taken over the criminal investigation. This team includes various local law enforcement agencies and is led by the Pima County Sheriff’s Department for this case. Additionally, the Tucson Police Department’s Office of Professional Standards will conduct its own administrative review. Findings from the investigations will be submitted to the Pima County Attorney’s Office upon completion.