Police: 1 dead, 5 hurt in multiple shootings in Mesa
Mar 18, 2015, 12:55 PM | Updated: Mar 19, 2015, 8:12 am
PHOENIX — A man suspected of killing one person and injuring five others in a spree of shootings in Mesa, Arizona was taken into custody Wednesday.
The suspect, identified by police as Ryan Giroux, was taken into custody at an apartment complex near Dobson Road and Eighth Avenue.
Giroux is suspected of killing another man at the Tri-City Inn Motel near Main Street and Alma School Road.
“I saw the dude pull out his gun and shoot (my boyfriend) and everything,” Veronica Ehrig told KTAR News’ Mac & Gaydos.
Giroux then ran across the street to a restaurant staffed by East Valley Institute of Technology students and shot at least one person before carjacking a teacher. He left in the teacher’s gray Honda Accord.
Giroux then attempted to enter an apartment near Dobson Road and Southern Avenue, where he shot another person. That victim is in critical condition.
Arizona prison records show Giroux, a known white supremacist, served multiple stints in jail dating back to 1994. He has been convicted of attempt to commit aggravated assault, burglary, theft and a marijuana violation.
Shortly after the shootings became public, nearby campuses began warning their students.
MCC's Southern and Dobson campus is on lockdown. Check http://t.co/UrCAF8AJcj for updates.
— MesaCommunityCollege (@mesacc) March 18, 2015
Our Mesa campus is currently on lockdown. Check back for updates.
— PimaMedicalInstitute (@PimaMedical) March 18, 2015
Westbound Main Street between Alma School and Dobson roads was closed.
The Mesa School District website showed schools in the area were on spring break.
Gov. Doug Ducey released a statement, expressing his concern:
“I’ve spoken to Mayor Giles and offered the full support and resources of the state in handling this senseless shooting. I’ve also directed the Arizona Department of Public Safety to assist Mesa with any and all resources required. Right now, our hearts and prayers are with the people of Mesa, the individuals affected by this tragedy, and all law enforcement and first responders working to assist the victims.”
Mesa Mayor Giles also released a statement:
“I would like to extend our heartfelt thoughts and prayers to the shooting victims and their families. This morning’s events were tragic and impact all of us across the valley. Mesa is a resilient community and part of a region that comes together in times of crisis. I appreciate the many calls of support and offers of help I’ve received from Governor Doug Ducey, fellow mayors and elected officials. This is a reminder of the importance of a strong regional public safety program.”
