Small Drone Aids Tactical Response in Phoenix Shooting

On February 22, 2025, Phoenix Police deployed a small drone during a tactical response to a shooting near 19th Avenue and Glendale Avenue, where a woman was found shot and a man was discovered dead from an apparent self-inflicted gunshot. As reported by FOX 10 Phoenix, the incident unfolded around 3:20 p.m., prompting officers to swarm the residence with guns drawn and shields raised, using the drone to search the property. This event showcases the practical application of drone technology in high-stakes police operations.

Incident and Drone Deployment

The situation began when Phoenix Police responded to a shooting report at a home near 19th Avenue and Glendale Avenue on Saturday, February 22, around 3:20 p.m., as stated in the source material. Upon arrival, officers discovered a woman who had been shot and was transported to a hospital with serious injuries, later described as not life-threatening. The police then reportedly utilized a “small drone” to search the residence for additional suspects while securing the scene with a heavy presence, including tactical gear. Inside, they found a man dead with what investigators believe was a self-inflicted gunshot wound, suggesting a possible attempted murder-suicide scenario.

The reports consistently describes the drone as “small” but provides no further specifics on its make, model, or capabilities, such as thermal imaging. Its deployment enabled officers to assess the home’s interior safely, a point reinforced by the text’s emphasis on the thorough police response. As of February 23, 2025, the investigation remains ongoing, with no identities or motives released, as the police are still piecing together the events.

Phoenix Police Drone Capabilities

The Phoenix Police Department has employed drones since at least 2022, when the Phoenix City Council approved a $500,000 UAS program following a February 11, 2022, ambush where a borrowed drone aided operations. This detail, from the source material, underscores the department’s investment in police drones. While the exact models in their fleet aren’t specified in the provided text, the program’s goals—supporting tactical incidents and investigations—suggest drones with high-definition cameras and real-time surveillance capabilities, as noted earlier. The “small drone” used on February 22 likely aligns with these features, possibly resembling compact models like the DJI Mini or DJI Avata 2 drone, though this remains an educated assumption without direct confirmation.

This incident reflects the increasing use of UAS technology in law enforcement, offering a safer, more efficient alternative to traditional methods. The source material highlights the drone’s role in ensuring the scene was secure, a trend seen across agencies adopting police drone programs.

Photo courtesy of AZ Central