Phoenix, Arizona – A Phoenix Police officer is currently recovering in the hospital after being violently attacked and stabbed by a trespassing suspect at a QuikTrip gas station early Sunday morning. The incident occurred around 1 a.m. on April 7, near 17th Avenue and Bell Road. The Phoenix Police Department reported that the officer had initially responded to escort an unwanted individual from the store.
According to Phoenix Police Sgt. Phil Krynsky, the officer was informing the man that he was no longer allowed on the property when the suspect pulled out a knife and attacked the officer. Store employees intervened and managed to subdue the suspect before additional officers arrived to take him into custody. The suspect was later hospitalized for unrelated medical issues.
The injured officer sustained serious injuries after being stabbed in the neck, but fortunately, the injuries were not life-threatening. The officer, who has not been identified but had been with the department for about six months, narrowly avoided a life-threatening situation due to the proximity of the stab wounds.
Phoenix Police Chief Michael Sullivan expressed gratitude for the officer’s stable condition and recovery, emphasizing that such violent attacks on officers cannot become the norm. The community was urged to be outraged by the incident. The community was asked to keep the officer in their thoughts as he continues to recover in the hospital.
Prior incidents of violence against officers have occurred in the area, prompting continued efforts by law enforcement to address various issues affecting the community. The injured officer had previously served as a volunteer before joining the police force.
The suspect is expected to face multiple felony charges upon release from the hospital. QuikTrip spokesperson Aisha Jefferson issued a statement condemning the violence and expressing gratitude for the swift response of law enforcement and store personnel in ensuring the apprehension of the suspect and the safety of employees and customers.
The incident follows a recent shooting of a Phoenix police officer during an armed robbery on March 29, where three individuals, including two teenagers, were subsequently arrested. The Phoenix community continues to grapple with instances of violence and law enforcement officials remain vigilant in their efforts to ensure public safety.