PD: 2 Mesa officers hurt in fight with man

MESA, AZ - Two officers were injured after a man allegedly assaulted them at a Mesa home on Tuesday night.

Mesa Police Detective Michael Melendez said Officer Bell and Officer Waters responded to the area of 8th Avenue and Grand after a 911 hang-up call was made around 7:15 p.m.

The officers arrived at the scene and reportedly noticed that the door to the residence was open.

They called into the residence and 25-year-old Daniel Ruiz Espinoza came out and denied that there was a problem, but he apparently had a cut to his hand and blood on his shirt.

When asked about this, Espinoza allegedly clinched his fist and raised it up in a threatening posture toward officers.

Melendez said officers attempted to restrain him but he swung at the officers, striking Officer Waters.

A fight ensued and Espinoza continued to punch and kick at the officers, Melendez said.

Officer Bell was reportedly able to use his Taser and take Espinoza into custody, according to police.

As a result of the fight, Officer Bell received a broken hand and Officer Waters received a strained knee.

Melendez said while in custody, Espinoza, who is a documented gang member, threatened several officers.

An investigation reportedly revealed that there was a domestic disturbance between Espinoza and his girlfriend at the residence, however all parties denied calling 911.