Marana police identified the armed man who was struck by a patrol vehicle last Thursday after he was pursued in connection with stealing a rifle from a Walmart and firing his weapon in the streets.
Mario Miranda Valencia, 36, is facing charges of discharging a firearm in city limits, aggravated assault on a police officer with a deadly weapon and shoplifting involving a firearm, according to a news release from Marana police.Β
Last Thursday morning, Marana police responded to an area near West Coca Cola Place between North Business Park Drive and Frontage Road for reports of firearm theft. Upon encountering the suspect, officers learned that his rifle was loaded.
The man put a gun to his head and refused to cooperate with officers, said Sgt. Chris Warren, a police spokesman. He began to walk down the street towards businesses and fired a shot.Β
No one was injured and officer did not return fire.Β
A patrol officer used his vehicle to knock the man down. He was taken to the hospital for medical treatment and arrested upon his release.Β
Valencia is also facing numerous charges in connection with crimes committed in Tucson city limits. Before the confrontation with police at the Marana Walmart, he was allegedly involved in an armed robbery, church fire, home invasion and auto theft.Β
