A driver who barricaded himself inside his car and brandished a gun met a fatal end on Loop 101 in Tempe early Sunday morning, according to Arizona Department of Public Safety (DPS) officials.

The incident unfolded around 2 a.m. on May 5 near Loop 101 and University Drive when a trooper stopped a vehicle parked on the side of the highway. The vehicle matched the description of a car reported for erratic driving behavior. Despite attempts by the trooper to make contact, the driver refused to comply with commands and barricaded himself inside the vehicle, DPS stated.

By approximately 2:30 a.m., the driver, identified as Lemonte Anthony Knobelock, 44, of Mesa, produced a gun, prompting the trooper to open fire, resulting in Knobelock’s death. Fortunately, no troopers were injured during the encounter.

Former Officer Analyzes Deadly Tempe Shooting

Andy Anderson, former Phoenix Police Assistant Chief, provided insight into the sequence of events leading to the fatal shooting. Anderson, having reviewed numerous police shootings, examined the video footage of the incident.

The footage revealed DPS troopers strategically using their SUVs to box in the driver, preventing his escape. Clearly, he’s become very desperate at this point, Anderson observed. They figured out a way to keep him stopped by bringing that vehicle to the front and backing up into him. You can see where he’s spinning his front tires, front-wheel drive, and he can’t get out, so they’re protecting the community around him while still dealing with him.

Despite efforts to engage with the driver for nearly 30 minutes, the situation escalated. Anderson emphasized the inherent danger of such encounters, highlighting the unpredictability of events. These are incredibly dangerous situations, he remarked. Had they known he was going to bring deadly force, I’m confident they would have shut down traffic.

As troopers approached the vehicle with shields, the driver brandished the gun, prompting the trooper’s response. He opens fire, or the gun comes up. You can tell they all recognize it at the same time, Anderson noted somberly. Acknowledging the tragedy of loss of life, Anderson stressed the officers’ priority of safeguarding the community.

Conclusion: Prioritizing Community Safety

The fatal encounter on Loop 101 in Tempe underscores the complex and perilous nature of law enforcement operations. While tragic, the incident highlights the commitment of officers to protect the public from potential harm. As investigations into the circumstances continue, it serves as a somber reminder of the challenges faced by law enforcement in ensuring community safety.

Map of Loop 101 and University Drive

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