A recent report from the state’s worker-safety agency provides additional insights into the unfortunate demise of a Scottsdale police detective while on duty earlier this year.
Detective Ryan So found himself in a precarious situation on the evening of June 13th. He was part of a search warrant and arrest operation, and upon returning to their facility, he was unloading equipment from a vehicle. It was during this process that he picked up a backpack from the vehicle, unaware of the danger that awaited him.
Little did he know, a rifle was concealed within the bag, and as he lifted it, the weapon accidentally discharged. According to a report released by the Arizona Division of Occupational Safety and Health (ADOSH), the rifle had been in a folded position, but upon falling out of the bag, the butt hit the pavement, leading to the unforeseen discharge.
He eventually passed away at the hospital.
According to ADOSH, the employer was not aware of the rifle’s condition, which is why no worker safety violations were issued.
According to ADOSH Director Brian Hudson, it was clarified during a public meeting that the weapon that discharged was not So’s weapon.
“He said that there was apparently a round in the chamber.”
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He recognized that there might be internal policies within the Scottsdale Police Department concerning gun storage and ammunition that fall under the jurisdiction of the state’s worker safety agency.
Scottsdale Police is currently conducting an internal affairs investigation to determine if department policies were properly followed, according to a statement provided to ABC15. However, the investigation is still ongoing and has not been concluded yet.
Haerin So, the detective’s sister, was present at the meeting and expressed her emotions through tears as she revealed that the family has numerous unanswered questions.
Ryan is not to blame for his death. His death did not occur because of his actions.
In the midst of this devastating tragedy, she expressed how deeply her family has been affected, emphasizing that they are still grappling with the immense pain and lack closure.
The occurrence of such a grave and careless incident raises questions. How could this have happened?
According to the Maricopa County Medical Examiner, the cause of So’s death has been deemed accidental. The medical examiner determined that he died as a result of a gunshot wound to the neck.
The 38-year-old had served as a member of the Scottsdale Police Department for nine years. Tragically, he left behind a loving wife and three children.
He was born in Scottsdale and he attended the University of Arizona.
Brian Bowman, the pastor at Valley Life Church, spoke highly of him, describing him as a dedicated father and a cherished member of the church.
According to Bowman, Ryan’s deep devotion to Jesus was evident in the genuine care he showed towards the members of their church. He was not only admired but also respected as a leader by those who looked up to him.
The Mesa Police Department is conducting an investigation into So’s death, as per protocol.
According to a statement from Mesa Police, the report has been completed but has not yet been made public. ABC15 will provide the details of the report as soon as it is released.