Mesa Man Shoots at Trooper in Gilbert Pursuit

Vonbon Hill

less than a minute read

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27-11-2024

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A tense pursuit ended in gunfire on Wednesday when a Mesa man allegedly fired shots at a Department of Public Safety (DPS) trooper in Gilbert. The incident unfolded rapidly, leaving both the suspect and law enforcement officials shaken.

The Chase

The incident began around 11:00 a.m. when a DPS trooper attempted to pull over a vehicle driven by 28-year-old Michael Jones near Higley and Guadalupe Roads. Jones, however, failed to stop, initiating a high-speed chase that weaved through Gilbert's residential areas. The pursuit reached speeds exceeding 100 mph, according to DPS reports. Details surrounding the initial reason for the attempted traffic stop remain scarce at this time, pending further investigation.

The Shootout

During the pursuit, Jones allegedly fired several shots at the pursuing trooper. Fortunately, the trooper was not injured. The trooper returned fire, though it is unclear at this stage whether Jones sustained any injuries. The incident concluded near the intersection of Elliot Road and Lindsay Road, where Jones' vehicle eventually came to a stop.

The Aftermath

Jones was taken into custody without further incident. He is currently facing multiple felony charges, including aggravated assault on a law enforcement officer and unlawful flight from law enforcement. The vehicle used by Jones is being processed for evidence.

Investigation Underway

The Arizona Department of Public Safety is leading the investigation, with the assistance of the Gilbert Police Department. The DPS has not yet released further details about the incident, citing the ongoing nature of the investigation. The involved trooper has been placed on administrative leave, a standard procedure following officer-involved shootings.

Community Impact

The incident has understandably shaken the community of Gilbert. Residents who witnessed the high-speed chase and the subsequent gunfire have expressed their concerns and anxieties. Local authorities are urging anyone with information about the incident to contact the DPS. The investigation is expected to take several weeks, and further updates will be released as they become available. The safety and wellbeing of the community remain the top priority for local law enforcement.