An Arizona police officer tragically lost his life after a gun he was moving fell and accidentally discharged.
Detective Ryan So of the Scottsdale Police Department succumbed to duty-related injuries sustained on Friday, June 14, according to a statement from the department.
“This is an unimaginable tragedy for both Ryan’s family and his police family at SPD,” the statement read. “Our thoughts and prayers are with Detective So’s family, his team, and everyone across our police department.”
"As you can imagine, this is an incredibly difficult time," Scottsdale Assistant Police Chief Rich Slavin said at a press conference.
"We ask for privacy for Ryan's family and for the police department. Please keep Ryan's family and the men and women of the Scottsdale Police Department in your thoughts and prayers."
The incident occurred as Detective So and fellow members of the Special Assignment Unit were unloading equipment following a search warrant and arrest operation.
According to the police, a rifle fell out of a bag Detective So was moving and discharged upon hitting the pavement, striking him.
Despite immediate aid from other detectives on the scene and subsequent transportation to a hospital, Detective So succumbed to his injuries.
"The loss of Detective So is deeply felt throughout the entire community. We will forever honor his sacrifice and remember his legacy as a hero who dedicated his life to serving and protecting others," stated the Scottsdale Police Department.
Detective So served with the Scottsdale police for nine years and was also a U.S. Navy veteran. He is survived by his wife, Ashley, and three daughters: Emerson, Stella, and Tatum.
Sandi Turek, who taught one of So’s daughters at North Valley Christian Academy, recalled him as a devoted father who always prioritized his children.
"He made it a point to come to stuff in the middle of the day, like, ‘What time is it? I have to be there,'" Turek told local TV station KSAZ. "He made sure he was there."
Turek also highlighted So’s dedication to community service and his influence on his daughters. "He always said, ‘What can I do to help?’ He was a mirror. They reflected on that, and they saw that as an example, and they wanted to be like their dad," she shared.
Chris Ellis, a friend of So's, told AZFamily stressed the impact that his loss will have on the community.
"I don't think I've known someone whose had as big a servant heart as he does," Ellis said. "He's always helping other people."
"Sheriff Skinner and the entire Maricopa County Sheriff's Office send sincere condolences to the family, friends, and colleagues of Scottsdale Police Department Detective Ryan So who passed away last night," the sheriff's office said on Facebook.
"We thank and honor him for his dedicated service to the community. May he rest in peace."
Detective So’s funeral is scheduled for Thursday, June 20, in Scottsdale, Arizona.
