Chandler, Arizona Police Officer Christopher Farrar was killed after 18 years in law enforcement by a violent armed suspect driving a stolen vehicle on April 30th.
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Chandler Police Officer Christopher Farrar. Officer Farrar was struck and killed by a suspect driving a stolen vehicle earlier this evening. He was a 18-year veteran of the Chandler Police Department. pic.twitter.com/msQ19LT70L
— Chandler Police (@ChandlerPolice) April 30, 2021
The details from Newsweek are below:
Officer Christopher Farrar, of the Chandler Police Department, was hit by a vehicle at the SanTan MotorPlex near the Loop 202 Santan Freeway and Val Vista Drive.
Fox 10 reported that police from multiple law enforcement agencies began a pursuit of the suspect in Eloy, Arizona, before ending up in Chandler Airport where the suspect driver drove through one of the gates, causing a closure of the airport.
The driver made his way back onto the freeway and ended up at the SanTan Motorplex.
The suspect then got out of the car, stole another vehicle and drove away, hitting Farrar.
A Gilbert police officer also sustained serious injuries, reports ABC 15.The suspect was later taken into custody following an exchange of gunfire with officers. No further information about the suspect has been released at this time.
Officer Chandler received a proper procession following the incident.
In a further statement to reporters at the scene, Chandler Police Chief Sean Duggan said: “This is a very difficult time for our department and really the entire Chandler community… Chris [Farrar] was struck and killed by a violent felon in a stolen vehicle following a multi-agency shooting and pursuit.”
“I just ask that you keep Chris’s family in your thoughts and prayers, and take a moment and be mindful of the brave men and women who are out there daily helping keep our communities safe,” the chief added.
Phoenix Police added: “Our thoughts and prayers are with Chandler Police this morning as they mourn the loss of Officer Christopher Farrar. Sending our deepest condolences.”
In addition, the daughters left short heart-felt notes on Twitter about the dramatic loss they had just experienced at the hands of criminals:
Rest in peace daddy, I love you🖤💙 https://t.co/XsbewMbeLP
— Riley Farrar (@rileydfarrar) April 30, 2021
Dad, there were so many more memories left. 🖤💔 https://t.co/mrOJ87QlQy
— Tessa Mathis (@tessa_farrar) May 1, 2021
With all of the false narratives and shoddy negative reporting regarding police officers over the past year or two, we feel it is important to highlight the dangerous reality of their jobs, the positive effects nearly all of them have on their communities, and the vacuum that is left when another good one is lost.