Gila River Police Department Press Release Re: Officer Joshua Briese Murder
At approximately 2 o’clock this morning, Gila River Public Safety Dispatch received an emergency call for service regarding a disturbance at a home in Santan, District 4 of the Gila River Indian Community.
Gila River Police Department (GRPD) officers responded. As the responding officers worked to address the disturbance, which involved a large crowd, multiple gunshots were fired. Two GRPD officers were struck by gunfire, as were four individuals at the scene.
The injured officers and individuals were immediately taken to local hospitals. One of our Gila River police officers has died as a result of his injuries. The second injured officer remains in serious but stable condition. At least one other individual has been pronounced deceased. All the injured are being treated at area hospitals.
The deceased Gila River Police Officer has been identified as Officer Joshua Briese. Officer Briese had been with the department for less than a year and was still on Field Training.
Our hearts and prayers are with these police officers, their families, and everyone impacted by this tragic incident.
The Gila River Police Department is working with the Federal Bureau of Investigation to conduct a joint investigation of the incident. More information will be forthcoming as the investigation progresses.