Three people have been detained after an explosive device was thrown at a Mesa Police Department (MPD) patrol vehicle, injuring an officer and damaging the cruiser in an Arizona neighborhood early Thursday morning.
The explosion occurred shortly before 6 a.m. on Nov. 12 near 96th Street and Sunland Avenue. The officer was in the parked patrol car when a loud blast went off nearby, according to MPD.
Investigators said an undetermined explosive device had been intentionally thrown at the vehicle. The blast damaged the patrol car and left the officer with injuries that were not considered life-threatening.
The officer was taken to a hospital for treatment as a precaution. Police have not released the officer’s identity or provided further details about the extent of the injuries.
The incident began as officers were responding to a separate report of shots fired near 96th Street and Hampton Avenue. However, MPD Detective Laura Cervantes said the initial shots-fired investigation and the explosion are not believed to be connected.
Three men were detained in connection with the explosion. Police have not announced whether they will face charges or disclosed a possible motive.
Following the blast, officers established a perimeter and investigated the area. A nearby school was also placed on lockdown as a precaution, but the restriction was later lifted.
MPD urged residents to stay away from the affected area while officers worked at the scene. The investigation remains ongoing, and authorities have not yet released additional information about the device or the circumstances surrounding the attack.