Sketch released of possible suspect in MCSO officer slaying

PHOENIX — Phoenix police released a composite sketch Friday of a man suspected of gunning down a Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office detention officer.

Jorge Vargas, 27, was shot and killed in his driveway near 89th Avenue and Lower Buckeye about 4 a.m. Thursday.

Phoenix Police Sgt. Trent Crump said someone was spotted running from the scene around the same time when neighbors heard shots. Neighbors called 911 after hearing gunfire.

The possible suspect is described as being a Hispanic male in his 20s. He stands about 5-foot-8 and weighs about 155 lbs. He has black hair. He was last seen wearing a white t-shirt and black shorts.

Sheriff Joe Arpaio said Vargas worked for the Sheriff’s Office Custody Support Bureau in the jail’s food factory, but he often came into contact with inmates.

Vargas leaves behind a wife and a 5-year-old child.