Police Officer Killed, Another Injured After Disturbance Call Leads To Arizona Shooting

PHOENIX (KPHO/Gray News) – An Arizona police officer has died and another was hospitalized after a shooting early Saturday morning.

According to the Gila River Police Department, it received a 911 call around 2 a.m. regarding a disturbance at a home in Santan, located in District 4 of the Gila River Indian Community.

Gila River Police said officers arrived on scene to find a large crowd, where several shots had been fired.

Two police officers ended up being hit by the shots, as well as four other people.

The victims were transported to an area hospital, including Gila River Police Officer Joshua Briese.

The department said Briese died from his injuries, with the second officer having stable vital signs while remaining in the hospital.

Another injured person also succumbed to his injuries. Their names were not immediately released.

Officer Briese was the son of Yellowstone County Sheriff's Office Deputy Dave Briese, who died in the line of duty on November 3, 2006 in Montana.

The department confirmed that both father and son had died, saying: “All we can say is God, hurry up and rest easy.” Knowing that Dave and Josh are together again, they both left this world to serve their community and do what they loved.

Officer Briese had been with the department for less than a year and was still undergoing field training.

“Our hearts and prayers go out to these officers, their families, and everyone affected by this tragic incident,” the department shared.

Governor Stephen Roe Lewis of the Gila River Indian Community issued a statement regarding the shooting which said in part:

“I know I speak for our entire community when I say we mourn our fallen and injured police officers and all community members affected by such tragic violence.

Nothing is more profound than a life cut short. We will pray for our officers and their families, as well as for every community member, loved one and family affected by what happened this morning.

State officials and area police departments also paid tribute to Officer Briese throughout the day Saturday.

The Gila River Police Department said it is working with the FBI to investigate.

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