On December 27, 2014 at 1:30 pm, Officer Tyler Stewart was attempting to make contact with a subject who was earlier involved in a domestic violence investigation. Preliminary information indicates the subject shot at the Officer multiple times, and then shot himself. Both the Officer and the subject succumbed to their injuries. The subject is identified as Robert W. Smith, 28 years old of Prescott.
Officer Tyler Jacob Stewart, 24 years old was less than one year on the Department. Tyler Stewart graduated from Boulder Creek High School from Anthem Arizona, and Concordia College in California.
“This is an enormous tragedy for our department and the family of our Officer. We are a very close knit organization, and know that all members of the Flagstaff Police Department are grieving at this time. With that being said, all of the men and women of the Flagstaff Police Department extend our prayers and condolescences to the family of our Officer Tyler Stewart.” stated Chief Kevin Treadway.
“My thoughts and prayers go out to Officer Stewart’s family and friends, and to his fellow officers and first responders who are grieving this loss. Please remember them in your prayers, and please also go out our your way to thank our law enforcement personal and first responders for their tireless dedication and daily service to our communities,” said Arizona State Representative Bob Thorpe.
Mayor Jerry Nabours commented, “It is heartbreaking to lose one of our officers. We collectively mourn for his family and the entire department.”
Officer Stewart’s family and the Flagstaff Police Department will be sponsoring a candlelight vigil tomorrow December 28, at 5:3 p.m. This vigil will take place around the Officer Down Memorial Statue at the front of the Flagstaff Police Department at 911 E. Sawmill. All community members are invited to bring a candle and attend.
Arrangements will be under the care of Norvel Owens Mortuary.
This incident is currently under investigation and the Northern Arizona Law Enforcement multi agency shooting team is currently assisting in this effort. Further information will be forthcoming.
Governor Jan Brewer has ordered flags to fly at half-staff until sundown on Sunday in honor of Officer Stewart.