On November 5, 2024, Pima County Sheriff’s deputies responded to a distressing call regarding suicidal threats made by a 19-year-old man, Gabriel Huerta, in the 5500 block of North Shannon Road.
The caller reported that Huerta had made alarming statements about self-harm to his family before leaving with his 9-month-old son in a red Ford Fusion. His destination was unknown, and family members feared for the safety of both Huerta and his son.
As deputies initiated their search, they received information suggesting Huerta might be armed and had expressed an intent to harm both himself and his infant son.
Law enforcement located Huerta’s vehicle shortly afterward near Himmel Park, in the vicinity of North Tucson Boulevard and East Hawthorn Street. Deputies carefully positioned themselves around the area in an effort to contain the situation.
After spotting Huerta, deputies attempted to engage with him, issuing repeated commands. However, Huerta fled on foot into a nearby alley. Moments later, deputies heard multiple gunshots emanating from the direction of the alley. When they reached the scene, they discovered both Huerta and his son with gunshot wounds.
Deputies immediately administered emergency first aid to both Huerta and his child, using Individual First Aid Kits until paramedics arrived on the scene. The infant and Huerta were then transported to a local hospital, where the young child tragically succumbed to his injuries. Huerta remains in critical condition, unresponsive at this time.
The Pima County Sheriff’s Department’s Homicide Unit is leading the investigation with support from specialized units, including the Robbery and Assault Team, Domestic Violence Unit, and Crimes Against Children Unit. Additionally, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) assisted with a K9 unit to search for additional evidence, such as projectiles and shell casings, to help reconstruct the sequence of events leading to the tragic outcome.
Authorities are continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding this case, and more information will be shared as it becomes available. The incident has left the Tucson community in mourning, and local resources are being offered to those affected by this heartbreaking tragedy.