Authorities have identified David Leroy French, 21, as the suspect arrested in connection with the mass shooting that injured nine people in downtown Tucson, Arizona, early Sunday morning. The incident has shocked the community and prompted a large-scale investigation by the Tucson Police Department and partner law enforcement agencies.
According to investigators, the shooting occurred at approximately 2 a.m. near the intersection of East Congress Street and North Sixth Avenue, a popular downtown entertainment district. Police say the violence followed a verbal altercation between two groups before gunfire erupted, leaving nine victims with gunshot wounds. Officers who were already nearby responded within moments after hearing the shots.
Authorities allege that David Leroy French attempted to flee the scene on foot before being confronted by responding officers. During the encounter, an officer shot French, who was taken into custody and transported to a hospital for treatment. Police said he remains under arrest and is expected to be transferred to jail following his release from medical care. (Arizona Daily Star)
Court records show French is currently facing nine counts of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, nine counts of aggravated assault causing serious physical injury, and one count of discharging a firearm at a structure. Investigators have indicated that additional charges may be filed as the investigation continues. (https://www.witn.com)
Officials also stated that French was serving a four-year probation sentence stemming from a prior aggravated assault conviction at the time of the shooting. That information has become part of the ongoing investigation into the incident and the suspect’s background. (Arizona Daily Star)
All nine victims survived the shooting but sustained injuries ranging from serious to critical, according to authorities. Investigators continue interviewing witnesses, reviewing surveillance footage, and collecting forensic evidence to establish the full sequence of events that led to the violence. (Arizona Daily Star)
The mass shooting has renewed concerns about public safety in Tucson’s downtown entertainment district. Community leaders and local business owners have expressed support for the victims while thanking first responders for their rapid response, which officials say likely prevented additional injuries. (Arizona Daily Star)
Anyone with information related to the shooting is encouraged to contact the Tucson Police Department as the investigation remains active. Authorities are expected to release additional details as court proceedings move forward and investigators continue their work. (Arizona Daily Star)