Gila River Shooting : “Gila River shooting victim Alicen Apkaw identified, 23, tragedy strikes community”

Accident – Death – Obituary News : : 1. Alicen Apkaw Gila River victim
2. Gila River shooting victim Alicen Apkaw

A woman who died in the Gila River Indian Community shooting on Saturday was identified on Monday evening. Alicen Apkaw, 23, was confirmed as the victim by Gila River Indian Community Gov. Stephen Roe Lewis. Described as a beloved daughter and sister, Alicen worked in the housekeeping department of the Community’s San Tan casino. The incident also claimed the life of Gila River Police Officer Joshua Briese. Two suspects are in custody, receiving medical care for injuries. The community has imposed a moratorium on all dances in response to the shooting. For more updates, contact reporter Annie Goodykoontz at AGoodykoontz@gannett.com.

Gila River Indian Community Mourns Loss of Two in Tragic Shooting

The Gila River Indian Community is reeling from the tragic loss of two individuals in a shooting incident that occurred over the weekend. The community, located in Santan, District 4, is in mourning as they come to terms with the devastating events that unfolded on Saturday. The victims, identified as Alicen Apkaw, 23, and Gila River Police Officer Joshua Briese, were both fatally shot during the incident.

Alicen Apkaw Remembered as a Beloved Member of the Community

Gila River Indian Community Governor Stephen Roe Lewis shared his condolences for Alicen Apkaw, describing her as a beloved daughter, sister, and friend. Alicen worked in the housekeeping department of the Community’s San Tan casino and was known for her hard work, joyous spirit, and supportiveness. Her untimely death has left a void in the hearts of those who knew her, with Governor Lewis expressing the community’s devastation at her loss.

Gila River Police Officer Joshua Briese Honored for His Service

Officer Joshua Briese, a member of the Gila River Police Department, was also tragically killed in the line of duty during the shooting incident. Officer Briese was responding to a disturbance involving a large crowd when he was shot. Another police officer was injured in the incident, along with two individuals who are believed to be suspects.

Suspects in Custody as Investigation Continues

The FBI’s Phoenix Field Office and the Gila River Police Department have taken two suspects into custody following the shooting. Both individuals are receiving medical care for their injuries, with officials identifying them as a man and a teenage boy. The investigation into the incident is ongoing, with authorities working to determine the circumstances that led to the tragic events.

Community Responds with Unity and Strength

In response to the shooting, the Gila River Indian Community has imposed a moratorium on all dances, with those hosting or attending such events facing potential arrest and other consequences. The community is coming together in unity and strength as they navigate this difficult time, with a focus on healing and supporting one another.

As the community mourns the loss of Alicen Apkaw and Officer Joshua Briese, they are finding solace in coming together to remember and honor their lives. The impact of this tragedy will be felt for years to come, but the resilience of the Gila River Indian Community shines through as they support one another in the face of adversity.

For more updates and news, follow The Arizona Republic for the latest developments.