PolicePolice Critical Incident Briefing - January 10, 2025 - 4300 W Thomas Rd January 24, 2025 11:00 AM WARNING: The attached video may contain strong language as well as graphic images which may be disturbing to some people. Viewer discretion is advised. The Phoenix Police Department has released a Critical Incident Briefing (CIB) video that includes audio, visuals and information related to an in-custody death that occurred on January 10, 2025. This incident began around 2 p.m. near 43rd Avenue and Thomas Road when Phoenix police officers assigned to the Fugitive Apprehension Detail attempted to arrest a man for an outstanding felony parole violation warrant from out of state. The man was also wanted for questioning in a Phoenix armed robbery investigation. When officers contacted him, the man was armed with a gun, refused to comply with commands and ran away from officers. Several officers ran after him and saw the man get on top of the roof of a nearby home. Officers surrounded the home and ordered the man to come down from the roof. When he did not, officers in the back and front of the house used less-lethal 37 millimeter launchers to get him to come down. A 37 millimeter launcher is a less-lethal tool that launches a direct-impact baton which is designed to deliver pain compliance. A drone was used to help track the man as he ran. Multiple projectiles were deployed at the man, however, not all struck the man. It was after the last use of the less-lethal option that the man got off the roof. The man fell to the ground and struggled with officers. One officer delivered several forearm strikes to get him in handcuffs. Officers retraced the man's steps and found the handgun near the area where he discarded his shirt. Officers called Phoenix Fire Department paramedics to the scene. They evaluated the man, released him to officers and left the scene. While still in custody, the man told officers he was having a hard time breathing. Officers drove the man to a nearby hospital and it was determined the man would need advanced medical care. He was taken by private ambulance to a cardiac hospital. About four and a half hours after being initially contacted by officers, the man died at the second hospital during a surgical procedure. This incident is the subject of a criminal investigation to be reviewed by the Maricopa County Attorney's Office. It is also the subject of an administrative investigation. Conclusions about whether the actions of the officers are consistent with department policy and the law will not be made until all facts are known and the investigation is complete.
