TUCSON, Ariz. – Authorities in Pima County, Arizona, have released video footage capturing the fatal shooting of a man carrying a sword on February 24. The video, released by the Pima County Regional Incident Team on March 29, contains graphic content showing the incident.
The victim, identified as 23-year-old Devon Lewis, was shot and killed by a deputy at a hotel located in the 4800 block of South Palo Verde Road. The PCRIT reported that Lewis was first noticed by someone in the parking lot, where he was yelling and waving the sword.
Upon the arrival of Pima County Sheriff’s Department deputies, Lewis was found standing outside with the sword sheathed. After a brief conversation, Lewis suddenly unsheathed the sword and charged at the deputies. In response, a deputy fired a shot, resulting in Lewis being struck, with other deputies providing immediate aid.
The deputy involved in the shooting has been named as Ramon Morales, a one-year veteran of the PCSD. The incident is currently under investigation by the PRCIT in collaboration with the Tucson Police Department.
This shooting marks the fourth law enforcement-related shooting in the Tucson area in 2024. Once the investigation is complete, all findings will be forwarded to the Pima County Attorney’s Office for review.
Authorities urge caution when viewing the graphic video of the incident. It serves as a reminder of the complexity and challenges faced by law enforcement when dealing with potentially dangerous situations like this one.