Suspect in Highway Shootings Taken Into Custody

A man who allegedly shot at passing cars while driving the wrong way on a highway was taken into custody this morning, according to police.

The suspect, whose name was not released, is in his mid-30s and a resident of Phoenix, according to Department of Public Safety Public Information Officer Damon Cecil.

Multiple police agencies, including DPS and the Maricopa County Sheriff's Office, responded to reports of someone shooting at passing cars on Highway 87 near Gilbert, Arizona, Tuesday night.

At least two people were injured in the shootings. One person was "grazed" by a bullet to the head, but refused medical treatment.

A second person was shot in the leg and drove to the casino for help. That person's injury is considered to be non-life-threatening.

Cecil said two vehicles had been shot, one even catching fire because of the gunfire.

The suspect then drove to a convenience store and allegedly carjacked someone. He then fled north on State Route 87.

"This was an active-shooter situation," Cecil.

At least five vehicles, including a DPS patrol car, were shot. Cecil said there were multiple reports from people who may have been shot, but did not stay at the scene. Troopers are investigating.

]/>

The Mesa Police Department air unit found the suspect's abandoned vehicle in the desert near milepost 201, Cecil said. The suspect was found roughly a quarter-mile away in the fetal position.

Authorities said the suspect was alive, but not responsive and not listening to commands. A K-9 was released and bit the suspect, who was eventually taken into custody.

He suffered a minor injury and was taken to a hospital for treatment, officials said.

No officers or troopers were injured.

Highway 87 is shut down in both directions because of the investigation. Cecil said it would remain closed for several hours.

Cecil said "multiple rifles," including a semi-automatic AR-15, were found by the suspect's vehicle, along with ammunition and body armor.

He will be booked on several counts of aggravated assault, carjacking and other criminal charges.