PINAL COUNTY, Ariz. — A sheriff's deputy was rushed to the hospital after being shot by a trespassing suspect Wednesday night, according to the Pinal County Sheriff's Office.
PCSO said the deputy was responding to a call in the Dudleyville area when the suspect, later identified as 39-year-old Jason Forrester shot him. Officials said the deputy returned fire, striking Forrester
According to PCSO, both the deputy and Forrester were taken to the hospital.
Authorities released an update later Thursday morning and said the deputy is out of surgery, alert and in good spirits. Officials said Forrester remains in the hospital in stable condition.
Forrester also had an active warrant for dangerous drug possession, according to PCSO. He has previously served multiple sentences with ADCRR for burglary, weapons offenses, aggravated assault, and drug violations. He is also an affiliate of the Arian Brotherhood group, officials said.
The Pinal County Sheriff took to Twitter to issue a statement on the incident. Listen to his full statement in the embedded video below.
This is a developing story. Stay with 12 News for updates.
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