PHOENIX — An Arizona Department of Public Safety trooper was shot Thursday in north Phoenix and has been hospitalized, authorities said.
The trooper was struck by gunfire near 19th Avenue and Loop 101 around 12:45 p.m. Thursday, according to the Department of Public Safety. He was rushed to a hospital for treatment. DPS says the trooper is expected to make a full recovery.
Phoenix police assisted in the incident and tracked the suspected shooter to an apartment complex near 67th and Olive avenues.
Just before 8 p.m., Phoenix police said a person related to the incident was taken into custody after a short barricade.
The suspected shooter, who has since been identified as 34-year-old Howard Lamar Johnson, was taken to the hospital for serious injuries he suffered in the original incident.
Phoenix Police is currently working an active critical incident with DPS near 19th Avenue and the 101 Freeway. Please avoid the area. Media staging will be at 19th Avenue and Rose Garden Lane. pic.twitter.com/B7NUzAotOv
— Phoenix Police (@PhoenixPolice) May 25, 2023
Police also took 27-year-old Sonia Hernandez into custody for her alleged role in helping Johnson after the shooting took place.
Officials say the trooper was conducting an investigation in the area when he was shot and returned fire. The trooper was shot "several times," according to DPS, but is in good spirits and is expected to fully recover.
"Having spoken with the trooper and his family, I am optimistic he will be back on the road in due time, protecting the citizens of Arizona with his brave and selfless service," said Colonel Jeffrey Glover, director of DPS.
A witness tells ABC15 that a gunshot went through the window of his nearby business during the incident but nobody inside was hurt.
Michael Gonzalez was inside the building across the street when gunfire began.
— Christine Stanwood (@stanwoodreports) May 25, 2023
He tells me at least one shot went through his window. pic.twitter.com/6HnYLi17HB
Johnson is facing multiple charges, including aggravated assault.
Hernandez is also facing multiple charges that include hindering prosecution.
This incident remains under investigation.
