Joshua Briese : “Tribal Police Officer Killed in Phoenix Shooting”

Accident – Death – Obituary News : : 1. Tribal police officer killed
2. Phoenix-area home shooting casualties

A tragic incident in the Gila River Indian Community south of Phoenix resulted in the death of a tribal police officer and another individual, with a tribal officer and three others wounded in a shooting. The FBI and tribal police are investigating the scene, where multiple gunshots were fired during a disturbance at a home in Santan. Officer Joshua Briese, who had been with the department for less than a year, was among the fatalities. The community mourns the loss and seeks answers as to what prompted the violence. Tribal Gov. Stephen Roe Lewis expressed condolences for the fallen officers and affected community members.

The Tragic Shooting Incident in Gila River Indian Community

In the early hours of Saturday, a devastating shooting incident took place at a home in the serene locality of Santan, within the Gila River Indian Community, located just south of Phoenix. The incident resulted in the loss of two lives, including a tribal police officer, Officer Joshua Briese, who had been serving for less than a year. Another individual, identified as a community member, also tragically lost their life in the violent altercation.

Details of the Incident

Authorities were alerted to the disturbance at the residence in Santan through a 911 call, leading to the swift response of the Gila River Police Department. Upon arrival, officers were met with a chaotic scene where multiple gunshots had been fired, resulting in the injury of four individuals in addition to the two fatalities. The wounded were promptly transported to nearby hospitals for urgent medical attention.

Investigation Ongoing

The FBI, in collaboration with tribal police, has launched a thorough investigation into the incident, referring to the scene as “large” and complex. The identities and conditions of the injured parties have not been disclosed to the public, except for the report that the wounded officer is in a “serious but stable” condition following surgery.

A Heartfelt Statement from Tribal Gov. Stephen Roe Lewis

Tribal Gov. Stephen Roe Lewis expressed profound sorrow over the tragic turn of events, extending condolences to the families of the fallen officer and all those affected by the senseless violence. He underscored the importance of collaborating closely with law enforcement to gain a comprehensive understanding of the incident.

A Tragic Family History

Reports indicated that Officer Joshua Briese came from a law enforcement family, as his father, David Briese, had also lost his life in the line of duty. David Briese, a former sheriff’s deputy in Montana, tragically passed away in a car crash while responding to a backup call in 2006. This heartbreaking connection adds another layer of poignancy to the recent loss suffered by the Briese family.

The community remains in shock and mourning as they grapple with the aftermath of this unforeseen tragedy. The investigation continues as authorities work tirelessly to piece together the events leading up to the fatal shooting in Santan.