SURPRISE, AZ — Authorities are investigating a deadly shooting involving a Maricopa County Sheriff's deputy in Surprise Wednesday night.
The incident happened around 6:30 p.m. near Loop 303 and Grand Avenue.
MCSO says a deputy responded to a crash in the area. When the deputy approached the crashed car, the driver started shooting at the deputy.
The deputy returned fire, striking the driver. He was later identified as 22-year-old Michael Gerhart.
According to MCSO officials, an autopsy indicated the cause of death was a self-inflicted gunshot wound.
No other injuries were reported.
Surprise resident Kyle Davis, sent ABC15 videos and pictures from when the incident first started. You can see several Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office deputies walking around - some with guns in hand, protective shields, and bulletproof vests.
Davis says he could see deputies surrounding a vehicle that was smashed up.
Maricopa County Sheriff Penzone released this statement regarding the shooting:
"The deputy's discipline, experience, and incredible instincts are the reason he was able to go home safe to his family and continue to protect our community members. I am thankful our deputy is alive and uninjured during these challenging times for law enforcement and the continued threat and danger in the course of our duties. I am also appreciative for the multijurisdictional commitment from other law enforcement agencies that assisted MCSO during this incident including Surprise PD and DPS."
The deputy involved is on administrative leave pending the conclusion on the investigation.
