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Phoenix Police Say Officer Shot, Killed

PHOENIX, AZ – Officer Travis Murphy was shot and killed when he confronted a suspect had led officers on a short pursuit at approximately 1:00 am.

The suspect had eluded the officers after turning off his lights and fleeing at a high rate of speed. Several minutes later dispatchers received reports that a man was seen attempting to hide a vehicle under a tarp at a vacant home. Officer Murphy, along with several officers, responded to the scene and started searching for the man on foot.

Officer Murphy encountered the suspect and was shot. Other officers immediately placed him in a patrol car and took him to St. Joseph’s Hospital, where he succumbed to his wounds a short time later.

The suspect was taken into custody after being found hiding in a nearby shed.

Officer Murphy is survived by his wife, 2-year-old daughter, and 2-week-old child.

AP’s earlier story is below:

PHOENIX (AP) — Police have arrested a suspect in the shooting death of an officer at a gas station convenience store in west Phoenix.

Police had responded to a call about a suspicious vehicle around 19th Avenue and Indian School Road when the officer was shot around 1 a.m. Wednesday.

Police spokesman Sgt. Trent Crump says the officer died at St. Joseph’s Hospital.

Police have a suspect in custody and have taken him to police headquarters in downtown Phoenix.

Authorities have not identified the slain officer. Other officers are gathered at the hospital to show support.

Detectives are investigating. Traffic is restricted on 19th Avenue.