An officer-involved shooting at 32nd Street and Baseline Road is under investigation.
On June 27, police said members of the US Marshals Service Arizona WANTED Task Force attempted to seize a known gang member, resulting in an officer-involved shooting.
“The fugitive was wanted by the United States Marshals Service and the Mesa Police Department on warrants for aggravated assault, aggravated assault, domestic violence, disorderly conduct with a weapon, misconduct involving weapons, threats and assault,” stated Deputy U.S. Marshal Colleen Grayman.
According to the task team, the fugitive was discovered in a residence and was under surveillance as he drove away.
“Task Force members attempted to stop the vehicle when the fugitive fired multiple rounds at law enforcement. The subject was struck by police gunfire and succumbed to his wounds,” said Grayman.
No officers were hurt.
What they’re saying: Walter Burks says he was inside his residence when the shooting happened.
“We heard a round of shots, like maybe about five. Pop, pop, pop.. and then all of a sudden when I came out, I seen several law enforcement vehicles on the corner of 32nd Street and Baseline. And then I went to the front of the complex, and I noticed that there was a blue Charger pinned in between.. and I looked over and saw them trying to revive a gentleman on the ground.”
What we don’t know: There have been no names released in this case.
What’s next: The Mesa Police Department reports that East and West Baseline Road will be closed at 32nd Street throughout the investigation. There is no news on when it will reopen.
Grayman says the East Valley Critical Incident Response Team will look into the officer-involved shooting.