By Police1 Staff
FLAGSTAFF, Ariz. — Disturbing video captured the moments leading up to the killing of a rookie Arizona officer by an armed suspect.
24-year-old Flagstaff police Officer Tyler Jacob Stewart was killed December 27 by a man concealing a firearm.
According to The Republic, Officer Stewart responded to an apartment where 28-year-old Robert William Smith and his girlfriend had reportedly been arguing over unwashed dishes. Smith had become violent and broke items around the house, resulting in the girlfriend’s call to police.
Smith left the scene before Stewart arrived, but the two would make contact later in the day after Smith left a voicemail message for Stewart as the officer searched for him around town.
Smith was about to exit his residence when he turned around and went into his bedroom. Smith then emerged with his right hand stuffed in his jacket pocket, according to the report. Stewart asked Smith if he was carrying any weapons, which Smith denied.
After the men spoke outside for around three minutes, Stewart asked Smith if he could search him. The suspect told the officer he had cigarettes in his pocket. As Stewart searched Smith, the suspect drew a .22 caliber revolver and opened fire.
Out of six shots, five hit Stewart – four in his head.
Smith then fatally shot himself, according to Fox 10.
Officer Stewart had been with the Flagstaff police department for less than a year.