PHOENIX - The Phoenix Police Department has released body camera footage from the fatal shooting of 20-year-old Jonathan Delgado, who was killed on September 6. Delgado's family had called the police for assistance as he was undergoing a mental health crisis.
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The incident occurred around 11 a.m. in an alley near 19th Avenue and West Cheryl Drive, where multiple officers responded, including one trained to assist individuals experiencing mental health challenges. In the video, an officer can be heard saying, "We’re just here to help you, we’re just trying to help," as they approached Delgado, who was seen holding a knife and appearing to cut himself.
Officers followed Delgado, instructing him to drop the knife, but he instead turned and approached them. After utilizing a Taser, which did not subdue him, Delgado ran toward the officers. The footage captures gunfire, followed by Delgado collapsing to the ground.
Two officers discharged their weapons, hitting Delgado, who subsequently dropped the knife. Officers attempted first aid until Phoenix Fire Department personnel arrived and pronounced him dead. No officers or bystanders were injured in the incident.
The two officers involved in the shooting have been with the Phoenix Police Department for five and seven years, respectively. The Arizona Department of Public Safety is investigating the shooting, which will also be reviewed by the Maricopa County Attorney's Office. Additionally, an administrative investigation by Phoenix police is underway.
Information for this report was sourced from family members of Jonathan Delgado, Phoenix police officers, Phoenix fire crews, the Arizona Department of Public Safety, and officials from the Maricopa County Attorney’s Office.