Scottsdale Police in Arizona are grieving the loss of one of its police officers, Detective Ryan So, who succumbed to his injuries following what was described as a critical incident on Thursday evening. The Scottsdale Police Department (SPD) held a brief news conference to announce the heartbreaking news and provide some details about the incident.
On the evening of June 13, around 6:30 p.m., a distress call indicated an officer needed emergency assistance between 78th and 76th streets near the Greenway-Hayden Loop in north Scottsdale. Responding to the call, emergency services found Detective Ryan So, who was then rushed to a local hospital by the Scottsdale Fire Department. Tragically, despite their efforts, Detective So could not be saved.
Assistant Chief Rich Slavin, speaking on behalf of Chief Walther, who was out of state at the time, expressed profound sadness over the loss. “It’s with great sadness that I have to inform you that our officer succumbed to his injuries. Detective Ryan So served the Scottsdale Police Department for more than nine years and was also an active member of the U.S. Navy. He is survived by his wife and three children,” said Slavin.
Following his death, a solemn procession was held as Detective So’s body was transported from the hospital to the Maricopa County Medical Examiner’s Office, a poignant reminder of the ultimate sacrifice made by those in uniform.
The Mesa Police Department will lead the investigation into the circumstances surrounding this line-of-duty death, as part of the East Valley Critical Incident Response Team. The SPD has expressed gratitude for their assistance during this difficult time.
The police department has requested privacy for Detective So’s family and the department as they navigate this period of mourning. Assistant Chief Slavin urged the community to keep Ryan’s family and the men and women of the Scottsdale Police Department in their thoughts and prayers.
No further information was provided about the “critical incident,” check back for updates.