Suspect accused of injuring MCSO deputy shot, injured in Tonopah

AVONDALE, AZ — Officials say a suspect wanted for attacking and seriously injuring a Maricopa County Sheriff's deputy has been shot after trying to rob a home in Tonopah Saturday night.

The Maricopa County Sheriff's Office says 30-year-old Clinton Robert Hurley was shot by a homeowner when he tried to break into the victim's home near 373rd Avenue and Buckeye Road. Officials say the suspect and homeowner know each other and have a history of not getting along.

Tactical units were able to locate Hurley nearby with a gunshot wound and take him into custody. He was taken to the hospital in critical condition, officials say.

Officials say Hurley was being processed for felony warrants when he assaulted Deputy Juan Miguel Ruiz at a substation near Van Buren Street and Dysart Road. The deputy later died from his injuries.

Hurley then fled the scene in the deputy's Tahoe after the assault. He later abandoned the Tahoe and carjacked another vehicle, according to MCSO Sheriff Paul Penzone.

MCSO issued a $10,000 reward for information leading to the arrest of Hurley who was described as armed and dangerous.

Officials say he was just released from the Department of Corrections for sex offenses against children.

Dept. of Corrections

Officials say Ruiz had been with the department for almost three years. Sheriff Penzone said medical teams are working to donate his organs.

Detectives are still looking for one of the vehicles Hurley reportedly stole Saturday while fleeing from authorities, officials say. The vehicle is a 2016 Gray Kia Optima with California license plate 7TLD075.

Anyone with information is asked to call the Maricopa County Sheriff's Office at 602-876-1011.