Phoenix Police Officer Fatally Shoots Man Who Disarmed Assailant in Home Invasion
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A Phoenix police officer shot and killed a 36-year-old man, Christian Diaz Rendon, on January 26th, after responding to a report of a shooting near 75th Avenue and Lower Buckeye Road. Authorities now confirm that Rendon was not the original suspect, but had instead disarmed the individual who initially fired upon a home and its occupants.
Initial Response and Confrontation
The incident began just after 6 p.m. when police received a call reporting gunfire at a residence, with reports that a family member had been struck. Upon arrival, officers were directed inside by a community member who stated someone was “shooting people.” According to official statements, one officer entered the home and discharged a single round from their duty rifle through an open doorway.
Christian Diaz Rendon was one of the individuals struck by the gunfire. Records indicate he was engaged in a physical altercation with the suspect, attempting to subdue him, when he was fatally shot by the officer. Family members have reported that Rendon was shot in the head.
Police Chief Expresses Sorrow and Pledges Transparency
Phoenix Police Chief Matt Giordano issued a statement Friday morning expressing his condolences to the family and loved ones of Diaz Rendon. “My heart goes out to the family and loved ones affected by the officer-involved shooting on Monday, January 26,” Giordano said. “I am deeply sorry for their loss. I understand that incidents like this bring pain not only to those directly impacted but to our entire community.”
The Chief emphasized a commitment to transparency, stating that the Critical Incident Briefing (CIB) video related to the investigation will be released within the next few days. This move aligns with the department’s ongoing efforts to provide public access to information surrounding critical incidents involving officers.
Ongoing Investigations
The Arizona Department of Public Safety (DPS) is currently leading a criminal investigation into the shooting. The Phoenix Police Department is fully cooperating with DPS, and will also conduct an internal administrative investigation through its Professional Standards Bureau once the DPS investigation is complete. This internal review will focus on whether departmental policies, training protocols, and expectations were followed during the incident.
“Based on what we now know, I am able to share that the man who was fatally shot had disarmed the individual who had fired shots at the home and other family members,” Giordano stated. “He was not the subject of the original call.”
Commitment to Accountability
Chief Giordano reiterated the department’s dedication to both transparency and accountability. “We know this does not lessen the pain felt by those who are grieving,” he said. “Our goal is to be transparent and maintain trust as we work through this difficult incident together.”
The family of Christian Diaz Rendon spoke with ABC15 days after the shooting to share their story.
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The investigations are ongoing, and further details are expected to be released as they become available.
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