The Tucson Police Department has identified Officer Doug Wilfert and Officer Jorge Tequida as the officers involved in a shootout with 27-year-old Jose N. Barron Gomez that took place this morning on Tucson’s south side.
On December 1, 2016, at approximately 7:00 a.m., Officer Wilfert and Officer Tequida were searching for Gomez, a wanted suspect, at 4750 South Campbell Avenue. Gomez had an active felony arrest warrant for Aggravated Assault with a Dangerous Instrument. The officers were able to locate Gomez at a specific apartment in the complex. As they attempted to take Gomez into custody, gunfire was exchanged between Gomez and the officers.
During the incident, Gomez and both officers were struck by gunfire. Additional officers responded to the scene and began providing medical attention to the wounded officers and Gomez. Tucson Fire responded to the scene to continue medical treatment. Both officers were transported to Banner University Medical Center.
Gomez was pronounced deceased on scene.
Officer Wilfert received a gunshot wound to the leg. He is currently in good condition and has been released from the hospital. Officer Tequida received a gunshot wound to the shoulder. The round went through his arm and into his chest. He was immediately taken into surgery this morning and is currently in the Intensive Care Unit with serious injuries.
Detectives from the Violent Crimes Section and the Office of Professional Standards responded to continue the investigation. The Violent Crimes Section is conducting a criminal investigation into the incident. Additionally, the Office of Professional Standards is conducting a separate and parallel administrative investigation to examine the actions of department personnel in response to this incident. This is standard protocol in all officer involved shootings.
Officer Wilfert is a 7-year veteran with the Tucson Police Department. Officer Tequida has been with the department for just under 4 years.