Tucson, Arizona, December 13, 2025
In Tucson, a Pima County corrections officer fatally shot an inmate, Nathan Peru, during a struggle at Banner – University Medical Center South. Peru, facing serious charges including child sex crimes, slipped out of his handcuffs and attacked the officer. The officer fired her weapon in self-defense, resulting in Peru’s death. An investigation by the Pima County Sheriff’s Department is ongoing, and the officer has been placed on administrative leave.
Tucson, Arizona: Inmate Fatally Shot by Officer at Hospital
Tucson, Arizona – A Pima County Sheriff’s Department corrections officer fatally shot an inmate during a struggle at Banner – University Medical Center South on October 22, 2025. The incident occurred when 31-year-old Nathan Peru, who was in custody for multiple charges including child sex crimes, attacked the officer after slipping out of his handcuffs. The officer fired her weapon during the altercation, resulting in Peru’s death. The officer sustained minor injuries. The incident is under investigation by the Pima County Sheriff’s Department and the Pima County Medical Examiner’s Office.
Details of the Incident
At approximately 1 p.m. on October 22, 2025, Nathan Peru was being monitored by two corrections officers in an emergency room at Banner – University Medical Center South. One officer left the room, leaving Peru alone with the remaining officer. During this time, Peru managed to remove his handcuffs and attacked the officer, attempting to seize her firearm. In response, the officer discharged her weapon, fatally wounding Peru. The officer received minor injuries during the struggle. Medical personnel responded promptly, but Peru was pronounced dead shortly after the incident.
Background on Nathan Peru
Nathan Peru, 31, had a lengthy criminal history. He was facing charges for two counts of sexual conduct with a minor, theft of means of transportation, third-degree burglary, and endangerment. Additionally, he was a suspect in the suspicious death of his young daughter. Peru had been the subject of a significant manhunt prior to his arrest.
Investigation and Response
The Pima County Sheriff’s Department is conducting an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the shooting. The Pima County Medical Examiner’s Office is also involved in the investigation. The corrections officer involved in the incident has been placed on administrative leave, which is standard procedure in such cases. Further details will be released as the investigation progresses.
Previous Incidents Involving Inmate Deaths in Arizona
Arizona has experienced several incidents involving inmate deaths in recent years. For instance, in December 2025, inmate Leron Indian died at Onvida Health Yuma Medical Center following an altercation at Arizona State Prison Complex-Yuma. The incident is under investigation by the Arizona Department of Corrections, Rehabilitation & Reentry.
In December 2022, a Hays County Sheriff’s Office corrections officer fatally shot inmate Joshua Wright in the emergency room of a hospital in Kyle, Texas. The officer reported that Wright attempted to escape and assaulted him, leading to the use of deadly force. The incident prompted scrutiny and calls for further clarity regarding the use of force in such situations.
These incidents highlight the ongoing challenges and debates surrounding the use of force in correctional facilities and during inmate transfers to medical facilities. Authorities continue to review policies and procedures to ensure the safety of both inmates and staff members.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What led to the shooting of Nathan Peru at Banner – University Medical Center South?
Nathan Peru, an inmate with a history of serious charges, managed to slip out of his handcuffs and attacked a corrections officer during a hospital visit. In the ensuing struggle, the officer fired her weapon, resulting in Peru’s death. The officer sustained minor injuries during the incident. The Pima County Sheriff’s Department is investigating the circumstances surrounding the shooting.
What charges was Nathan Peru facing prior to the incident?
Nathan Peru was facing charges for two counts of sexual conduct with a minor, theft of means of transportation, third-degree burglary, and endangerment. Additionally, he was a suspect in the suspicious death of his young daughter. Peru had been the subject of a significant manhunt prior to his arrest.
What is the current status of the investigation into the shooting?
The Pima County Sheriff’s Department is conducting an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the shooting. The Pima County Medical Examiner’s Office is also involved in the investigation. The corrections officer involved in the incident has been placed on administrative leave, which is standard procedure in such cases. Further details will be released as the investigation progresses.
Key Features of the Incident
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Banner – University Medical Center South, Tucson, Arizona |
| Date and Time | October 22, 2025, around 1 p.m. |
| Inmate Involved | Nathan Peru, 31 |
| Charges Faced by Inmate | Two counts of sexual conduct with a minor, theft of means of transportation, third-degree burglary, endangerment; suspect in daughter’s suspicious death |
| Officer’s Response | Fired weapon during struggle, resulting in inmate’s death; officer sustained minor injuries |
| Investigation | Pima County Sheriff’s Department and Pima County Medical Examiner’s Office conducting investigations; officer placed on administrative leave |
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