A detective with the Phoenix Police Department was hospitalized after being ambushed and shot by two individuals, according to the law enforcement office.
Two men, identified as Ahmani Gordon and Aaron Ware, approached the car from both sides of the vehicle and fired shots at the officer. One stood on the passenger side and the other in front of the vehicle, reportedly firing more than a dozen shots at the vehicle.
The law enforcement agency detailed that the unidentified detective was immediately rushed to the hospital, as she was able to radio for help.
“I stand before you today, another sad day for our department and our city as yet another Phoenix police officer has been shot in the line of duty. Our officer was shot multiple times. Based on this early investigation, we believe her ballistic vest most likely contributed to saving her life,” Phoenix Police Department Executive Assistant Chief Michael Kurtenbach said at a news conference.
“It is just the beginning of summer and our homicide rate is up 24 percent over the same time last year. Homicides involving firearms are up 45 percent over the same time last year. ”
The two suspects were tracked down by the police, arrested, and booked on attempted first-degree murder charges. Gordon and Ware are each being held on a $2 million bond.
Over the past several months, multiple police officers with the department have been attacked. Earlier this year, multiple officers were shot and injured during a standoff.
“Every day, our law enforcement officers leave their homes to protect us. Their selflessness should not be met with lawlessness. Nine @PhoenixPolice officers have been shot in the line of duty since December – this is utterly unacceptable,” said Governor Doug Ducey.
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Cooper Moran is a reporter for The Arizona Sun Times and The Star News Network. Email tips to [email protected].
Photo “Phoenix Police Department Press Conference” by Phoenix Police Department.
