Critical Incident Briefing - August 31, 2025 - 2030 E Southern Ave.

WARNING: The attached video may contain strong language as well as graphic images which may be disturbing to some people. Viewer discretion is advised.

The Phoenix Police Department has released a Critical Incident Briefing (CIB) video that includes audio, visuals and information related to an officer-involved shooting (OIS) which occurred on August 31, 2025, near 20th Street and Southern Avenue.

The incident began when a two-officer patrol unit stopped a man riding a bicycle at night without a headlight near 20th Street and Sunland Avenue. After attempting to elude officers on the bike, he eventually stopped on 20th Street and stood next to the bike. Officers got out of their vehicle and just before contacting the man, he ran. Both officers quickly caught up and attempted to take him into custody.

Resisting arrest, the officers struggled to detain the man. One of the officers saw the man pull out a knife and stepped back, then verbally warned his partner of the threat.

As this officer removed his gun, the second officer moved away. This is when the officer-involved shooting occurred.

Responding officers provided medical aid until the Phoenix Fire Department arrived and took the man to a nearby hospital, where he later died as a result of his injuries. No one else was injured during this incident.

The officer involved is assigned to patrol in the South Mountain Precinct and has been with the department for over two years.

This incident is the subject of a criminal investigation being conducted by the Major Incident Division of the Arizona Department of Public Safety and will be reviewed by the Maricopa County Attorney’s Office. It is also the subject of an administrative investigation being conducted by the Phoenix Police Department.

Conclusions about whether the actions of the officers are consistent with department policy and the law will not be made until all facts are known and the investigation is complete.