Lauro Jesus Avechuco, 40

Sierra Vista, Arizona
April 14, 2014

Agencies: Sierra Vista Police Department - Arizona

Cause of death: Shooting


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Last updated: almost 6 years ago

Overview

Officer Justin Dannels stopped Avechuco for speeding near Golden Acres and State Route 92. After stopping briefly, Avechuco fled into a nearby neighborhood and stopped again in the 3900 block of Mahonia Place.

At this point, police say, Avechuco accelerated his vehicle toward Dannels, who fired his sidearm several times, killing Avechuco.

"The officer involved was not injured and has been placed on administrative leave, per department policy regarding officer involved shootings, while a joint investigation is being conducted with the Sierra Vista Police Department, the Cochise County Sheriff's Office and Federal Bureau of Investigation," SVPD Commander Adam Thrasher said.

Dannels is a two-year veteran of the Sierra Vista Police Department.

SVPD Chief Thomas Alinen requested that the FBI assist the Sierra Vista Police Department and the Cochise County Sheriff's Office with the investigation because Dannels is the son of Cochise County Sheriff Mark Dannels.

Legal Action

June 2014

Officer Cleared