Suspect wanted for sex crimes shot dead while confronted by Pinal County Sheriff’s deputies

PHOENIX – A suspect wanted in connection with sex crimes against children is dead after a shooting involving Pinal County Sheriff’s Office deputies on Friday.

The shooting happened in the town of Winkelman, located south of Globe and east of Florence, authorities said.

According to the Pinal County Sheriff’s Office, deputies located the suspect around 9:59 p.m. near the intersection of Second Street and State Route 77.

Deputies say the the 60-year-old man refused commands and took out a handgun.

Deputies say he then chambered a round and took an offensive position toward deputies, which led to law enforcement firing at the suspect.

An investigation is underway.

The sergeant who fired at the suspect has been placed on paid administrative leave, the sheriff’s office.

Two shootings in one week

This was the second officer-involved shooting by Pinal County Sheriff’s Office deputies in a week.

The first happened on Thursday night in Queen Creek when a 46-year-old woman was shot after firing a gun at deputies following a crash.

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