DPS trooper fatally shoots man during struggle in north Phoenix

PHOENIX — An Arizona Department of Public Safety trooper fatally shot 28-year-old Dion Johnson during a struggle on Monday morning, authorities said.

The incident occurred just after 5:30 a.m. in the area of State Route 101 and Tatum Blvd in north Phoenix.

The DPS trooper saw a car parked on the eastbound gore point, partially blocking traffic with Johnson passed out in the driver’s seat.

There was a struggle upon making contact with the suspect and the trooper fired his weapon, striking Johnson.

He was transported to the hospital where he later died.

The trooper, a 54-year-old man who has 15 years of service, did not suffer any injuries.

The investigation is ongoing.

It was the 20th shooting involving an officer in 2020, according to data tracked by KTAR News 92.3 FM.

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