Suspect dies in incident with Mesa police

Mesa police shot and killed a 49-year-old man in a wheelchair on Sunday morning, according to Sgt. Tony Landato.

The suspect, who has not yet been identified, had a felony warrant out for his arrest because of drug-related offenses. He handed over multiple knives that were in his possession prior to the shooting. Landato said the department has had multiple run-ins with the suspect before Sunday’s incident.

The sergeant said the officer who discharged his firearm did so in response to the suspect’s ill-advised reach for what police found to be a concealed handgun. The suspect died on the scene.

The incident occurred around 9:30 a.m. Sunday near Main Street and Williams Road. Three officers were present at the time of the incident, according to Mesa Police. None were injured during the altercation.

Expect delays in the area during the next few hours while detectives inspect the scene.

Landato said the victim’s name won’t be released until Monday or Tuesday, after his next of kin have been notified.