Phoenix Police Release Footage of Dramatic Hotel Robbery Arrest

Phoenix Police Release Footage of Dramatic Arrest Following Hotel Armed Robbery

PHOENIX – An armed robbery that took place on June 7, 2025, at a hotel near 48th Avenue and McDowell Road led to a dramatic arrest involving the suspect, who was struck by a patrol vehicle during a police pursuit. The incident unfolded around 3:15 PM when a man stole a purse from a hotel worker, prompting an immediate call to law enforcement.

A housekeeper at the hotel witnessed the robbery and reported that the suspect brandished a handgun when confronted about the theft. Described as a Hispanic male in his twenties, he was wearing black clothing and a black hat with yellow writing at the time of the incident. A witness was able to capture a photograph of the suspect, which was subsequently shared with responding officers.

Approximately one hour after the robbery, officers located a man matching the description at a gas station situated at 43rd Avenue and McDowell Road. Upon entering the store, the suspect was carrying the stolen purse. When the suspect exited the gas station, he fled on foot along McDowell Road, prompting officers to activate their lights and sirens in an attempt to apprehend him.

During the pursuit, officers observed the suspect reaching into his waistband, reportedly for a firearm. In response to the suspect’s actions, an officer operating a patrol vehicle collided with the suspect, running over one of his ankles. After the incident, officers were required to lift the vehicle to release the suspect’s ankle from beneath the front passenger tire.

Upon apprehending the suspect, law enforcement found a gun that matched the firearm depicted in the hotel’s surveillance footage from the robbery. The suspect was transported to a hospital with non-life-threatening injuries to his ankle before being taken into custody. He is facing multiple felony charges, including armed robbery, aggravated assault against a police officer, and weapons violations.

The officer involved in the incident has been with the Phoenix Police Department for six years and is stationed at the Maryvale-Estrella Mountain Precinct. Both the Maricopa County Attorney’s Office and the police department are conducting investigations into the incident surrounding the armed robbery and subsequent arrest.

Background Context

Armed robberies remain a serious concern for law enforcement agencies, often resulting in heightened police responses and community engagement. The use of surveillance technology and witness cooperation plays a crucial role in the apprehension of suspects in such cases. In recent years, Phoenix has faced challenges with violent crimes, sparking discussions about crime prevention strategies and community safety initiatives.

The prompt action taken by the housekeeper, who reported the robbery immediately, along with the swift response from police, demonstrates the critical importance of community involvement in crime prevention. The dramatic events of that Thursday afternoon will further contribute to ongoing discussions about police tactics and procedures used in the pursuit of suspects equipped with firearms.