PINETOP-LAKESIDE, Ariz. — A family disturbance near Woodland Lake Park ended in tragedy when a man was found dead from an apparent self-inflicted wound after a multi-agency police response.
According to a press release issued Thursday by the Pinetop-Lakeside Police Department, officers were dispatched to a residence at approximately 6:45 p.m. on July 2 in response to “reports of a family dispute and a potential threat involving a weapon.” The individuals who initially reported the incident had already left the scene, and officers believed the suspect was alone inside the residence.
To ensure public safety, the White Mountain Regional Special Response Team was activated and responded to the scene. Law enforcement secured the area, and nearby residents were urged to stay clear.
In a Facebook post at 2:51 a.m. on July 3, the department wrote, “The Pinetop-Lakeside Police Department is currently responding to an active incident near Woodland Lake. We ask the public to please stay clear of this area. At this time, there is no danger to the public.”
By 6:15 a.m., the department announced on Facebook the scene had been resolved: “The incident near Woodland Lake has been resolved, and the area is now open to the public. We appreciate the community’s patience and cooperation.”
Police later confirmed the suspect was found deceased inside the home from what appeared to be a self-inflicted injury.
The identity of the individual has not been released, pending notification to the family. The investigation remains ongoing.
Anyone with further information is encouraged to contact Officer C. Haas at the Pinetop-Lakeside Police Department by phone at (928) 368-8800 or via email at info@pinetoplakesideaz.gov.