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Arizona’s deputy sheriff died after being shot dead in an attempt to arrest a suspected theft who protected himself from the corresponding police officer before surrendering, officials said.
Sergeant of Yavapai County Sheriff. Sheriff David Rhodes of Yavapai County said at a press conference on Tuesday night that Richard Lopez, 51, answered the phone on Tuesday in the Cordes Lake district near the Stage Coach Trail and Red Rock Road, and suspects called him. He said he shot.
Residents called 911, according to Rhodes, and the corresponding officer noticed that Lopez was unresponsive on the scene. He was rushed to the nearest fire station and immediately airlifted to the hospital. Lopez had surgery, but he didn’t survive.
Officials said the SWAT team was stationed on the scene when the suspect barricaded himself in his house. The suspect was finally detained.
North Carolina police officers fired and injured while responding to the shooting
It is unclear what led to the shooting, and Rhodes said no further details of the incident would be announced soon.
Lopez was a 14-year veteran of the sheriff’s office. He is survived by his wife and two daughters.
Rhodes has closed the new meeting with remarks about intensifying violence against law enforcement agencies.
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“We see violence against law enforcement escalating everywhere and we must stop it,” Rhodes said. “These are the servants of the community. They are the people who serve the community and protect their lives, freedoms and property, and they are not worth it.”
No other details were provided at the press conference on Tuesday night.
The sheriff’s office has requested the Arizona Department of Public Safety to take over the investigation.