PHOENIX: A metro Phoenix sheriff’s deputy who suffered grave injuries at the hands of a man he had just arrested died Monday, authorities said.
Deputy Juan Johnny Ruiz succumbed to injuries he suffered on Saturday, Maricopa County Sheriff Paul Penzone said in a statement. Penzone’s announcement came after a media briefing earlier in the day where he said Ruiz’s family had decided to remove him from life support.
His loss is a tragedy for our profession and our community, Penzone said. I am committed to pursuing justice for Deputy Ruiz to the fullest extent of the law against the suspect. Nothing less is acceptable.
The family plans to donate his organs. He will be making a sacrifice so that others may benefit, Penzone said.
Arizona Gov. Doug Ducey ordered flags at all state buildings be lowered to half-staff from sunrise to sunset Tuesday to honor Ruiz.
The man accused of attacking Ruiz, 30-year-old Clinton Robert Hurley, remained hospitalized in stable condition Monday after getting in a gunfight with a homeowner. Authorities anticipate additional charges for Hurley.
The ordeal started Saturday morning when Ruiz arrested Hurley, who had outstanding warrants for his arrest, and was transferring him into a holding cell at a substation in suburban Avondale, which is about 18 miles (28 kilometers) west of Phoenix.
Police say an uncuffed Hurley beat Ruiz, who tried to radio for assistance several times. Authorities say Hurley took keys from a bleeding and unconscious Ruiz and fled in a deputy vehicle, crashing through a gate.
Deputies found Ruiz after reports came in of someone suspicious driving a police vehicle. He was rushed to a hospital.
A manhunt for Hurley ensued.
Later in the day, deputies responded to a shooting at a home in Tonopah about 52 miles (83 kilometers) west of Phoenix. Deputies determined a man fired on the homeowner, Penzone said. The homeowner then shot back and hit the man three times. One bullet resulted in a serious wound.
Deputies attempting first aid recognized Hurley because of his tattoos, Penzone said.
Investigators say Hurley and the homeowner were known to each other but did not say the nature of their relationship.
Hurley was released from an Arizona prison in December after serving time for attempted child molestation, authorities said. It was not known Monday whether he had retained an attorney who could speak on his behalf.
Investigators were also searching for a second vehicle they said Hurley stole and abandoned while hiding from authorities.
Ruiz was with the sheriff’s office for three years.
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