Governor Doug Ducey ordered flags at all state buildings be lowered to half-staff from sunrise to sunset today, October 12, 2021, to honor Maricopa County Sheriff’s Deputy Juan M. Ruiz, who was attacked by a felony suspect last week.  

Deputy Ruiz was injured in an attack while attempting to process a suspect for a felony warrant. The suspect assaulted Deputy Ruiz and left him unconscious and fled the scene. After a manhunt the suspect was apprehended by authorities after being shot in another altercation. Deputy Ruiz was transported to the hospital and put on life support, where he eventually succumbed to his injuries. 

“Arizona is heartbroken over the loss of Deputy Juan M. Ruiz,” said Governor Ducey. “He served our state honorably for years, and his dedication to protecting others continues with the donation of his organs. He will always be remembered for his selfless sacrifice — and my deepest prayers are with Deputy Ruiz’s family and loved ones, as well as the Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office and the entire law enforcement community. I’ve ordered flags be lowered to half-staff in honor of his life and service.”

Governor Doug Ducey today ordered flags at all state buildings be lowered to half-staff until sunset tomorrow, October 6, 2021, to honor Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) Group Supervisor Michael G. Garbo, who was killed in the line of duty yesterday. 

Governor Ducey released the following statement:

“My thoughts and prayers are with Group Supervisor Michael Garbo’s family, friends and colleagues. The senseless act of violence that took place in Tucson yesterday is a tragedy for our state. 

“Every day, law enforcement personnel put their lives on the line to keep Arizona and our nation safe. Group Supervisor Garbo died serving others in that heroic duty. He dedicated his career to protecting our communities from the trafficking of illegal drugs and the crime that accompanies them. He will be remembered for his exceptional service and the deep impact he had on all those who worked with him. 

“All of Arizona’s condolences are with his loved ones as well as the law enforcement community. Our prayers are also with the other officers who were injured in this attack. In honor of Group Supervisor Garbo’s life and service, I have ordered flags be lowered to half-staff.”