An Arizona police officer was fatally shot and another was injured early Saturday morning after responding to a disturbance call at the Gila River Indian Community, police officials said in a statement.
Officers from the Gila River Police Department arrived at a home in the community around 2 a.m. local time after receiving a distress call. A large crowd gathered and as police officers worked to deal with the disturbance, gunshots were fired, police said. Six people were shot during the melee, including the two police officers, and all were taken to local hospitals by emergency services. One of the community members died from their injuries, police said, and the other three are in hospital. No identities have been released.
Gila River Police Department
One of the police officers died in hospital. Police identified the fallen officer as Officer Joshua Briese. He had been with the Gila River Police Department for less than a year and was still undergoing field training, the statement said.
FBI Phoenix and Gila River Police will conduct a joint investigation into the shooting.
“We extend our deepest condolences to his family, friends and colleagues,” FBI Phoenix said.
The condition of the other police officer is serious but stable. The identity of the police officer was not released.
“Our hearts and prayers are with these police officers, their families and everyone affected by this tragic incident,” Gila River police said.
