The man killed in Monday’s police shooting in Dodge City was a suspect in a double homicide in Phoenix, Arizona.
The KBI reports 39-year-old Leroy Malone, of Phoenix, was spotted in Clark County, Kansas and fled as a deputy tried to stop him. This led to a chase that ended when Malone’s pickup was pushed into a ditch on the east side of Dodge City, near Wyatt Earp and 113 Road. Gunfire was exchanged between Malone and law enforcement. Malone was fatally wounded and a woman in his truck was critically injured. Her situation has since improved, but she continues to be treated for serious injuries.
Three deputies were hurt by gunfire, with a Ford County deputy sustaining what was described as a shrapnel wound. One Ford County deputy underwent surgery on Tuesday and his situation was said to have improved. A Clark County Deputy was released from the hospital to recover at home. A KHP trooper is also now recovering at home.
A KHP trooper was bitten by a law enforcement K-9 during the incident and is reported to be doing well after going through surgery.
Malone had been wanted in connection to a shooting over the weekend. 28-year-old Cameron Brown and 27-year-old Asya Rose Ribble were killed at their home on Sunday. Police found the couple’s 6-year-old son and 2-year-old daughter unharmed inside the house. Officials have not commented on a motive behind the shooting.
The investigation into the officer-involved shooting is being handled by the KBI and the sheriff’s deputies involved in the shooting are all on paid administrative leave. No more details are being released for now.