Phoenix, Arizona, November 25, 2025
The family of Victor Altamirano has filed a notice of claim seeking $10 million in damages after he was fatally shot by Phoenix police during a mental health crisis. The incident occurred when Altamirano’s daughter called 911 expressing concerns about his safety. Body camera footage raised questions about the actions of the officers, who maintain that they acted in self-defense. The family is advocating for reforms in police responses to mental health emergencies.
Family Seeks $10 Million After Phoenix Police Fatally Shoot Father During Mental Health Crisis
PHOENIX, Arizona – The family of Victor Altamirano, a 49-year-old father, has filed a notice of claim seeking $10 million in damages following his fatal shooting by Phoenix police officers during a mental health crisis. The incident occurred last month when Altamirano’s daughter called 911 expressing concern that her father, who was holding a knife and experiencing suicidal thoughts, might harm himself. Upon arrival, officers reported that Altamirano charged at them with the knife, leading to the use of lethal force. However, body-worn camera footage has raised questions about the circumstances leading up to the shooting, with the family alleging that Altamirano was shot in the back while attempting to flee. The Phoenix Police Department maintains that the officers acted in self-defense, stating that Altamirano posed an immediate threat. This case highlights the ongoing debate over police responses to mental health emergencies and the need for alternative crisis intervention strategies.
Incident Details
On the morning of the shooting, Altamirano’s daughter, Melissa, called 911, fearing for her father’s safety. She informed dispatchers that he was holding a knife and had suicidal thoughts. Shortly after officers arrived at the family home, Altamirano exited the residence and ran toward the officers. The family, who were nearby, reported hearing officers issuing commands followed by rapid gunfire. Body-worn camera footage released by the Phoenix Police Department shows officers deploying both non-lethal and lethal weapons almost simultaneously. The footage also shows Altamirano running, and his family believes he was shot in the back. The Phoenix Police Department maintains that Altamirano posed a threat, stating that he charged at officers with a knife.
Family’s Response and Legal Action
The Altamirano family is calling for reforms to how police handle mental health emergencies. They are seeking $10 million in damages, alleging that the officers’ actions were unjustified and that alternative crisis intervention strategies should have been employed. The family emphasizes the need for preventive resources, including behavioral health support and crisis response options, to address situations before they escalate to the point of involving law enforcement.
Background Context
This incident is part of a broader discussion on police responses to mental health crises. In recent years, there have been several cases where individuals experiencing mental health emergencies were fatally shot by police. For example, in 2020, Walter Wallace Jr. was killed by police in Philadelphia during a mental health crisis, leading to widespread protests and calls for change in law enforcement practices. These cases underscore the challenges law enforcement faces when responding to mental health emergencies and the ongoing debate over the need for alternative crisis intervention strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is a notice of claim?
A notice of claim is a formal notification to a government entity, such as a city or state, indicating an intention to file a lawsuit. It serves as a prerequisite before initiating a lawsuit against a government agency.
What is the Phoenix Police Department’s stance on the incident?
The Phoenix Police Department maintains that the officers acted in self-defense, stating that Altamirano posed an immediate threat by charging at them with a knife.
What reforms is the Altamirano family advocating for?
The family is calling for reforms to how police handle mental health emergencies, including the implementation of alternative crisis intervention strategies and preventive resources such as behavioral health support and crisis response options.
Key Features of the Incident
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Victim | Victor Altamirano, 49-year-old father |
| Incident Date | Last month |
| Location | South Phoenix, Arizona |
| Family’s Legal Action | Filed a notice of claim seeking $10 million in damages |
| Police Department’s Stance | Officers acted in self-defense; Altamirano charged at them with a knife |
| Family’s Allegation | Altamirano was shot in the back while attempting to flee |
| Call for Reforms | Advocating for alternative crisis intervention strategies and preventive resources |
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Author: STAFF HERE PHOENIX WRITER
The PHOENIX STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREPhoenix.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Phoenix, Maricopa County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Waste Management Phoenix Open, Cactus League Spring Training, and Arizona State Fair. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Phoenix Chamber of Commerce and Visit Phoenix, plus leading businesses in technology and healthcare that power the local economy such as Intel and Banner Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERETucson.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Arizona's dynamic landscape.
