On Interstate 10, bullets are flying
Arizona authorities said Thursday that a bullet hole found in a big rig was the 11th confirmed shooting along Interstate 10 near Phoenix in the past two weeks.
Two additional shootings, one possibly involving a BB gun, were under investigation, the Arizona Republic reported.
Windows have been shattered and doors pierced, but no one has been hurt in the apparent sniper attacks that began Aug. 29. Nonetheless, truckers and motorists are on edge.
In the latest confirmed shooting, a driver found a bullet hole while inspecting his tractor-trailer Thursday morning at a warehouse off I-10 in west Phoenix, the Department of Public Safety said. It’s not known when or where the truck was hit.
The DPS has not announced what caliber weapon or weapons have been used, or whether all of the incidents are connected. BB guns were used in three attacks.
A $20,000 reward is being offered for information leading to the arrest of the shooter or shooters.
In a statement Thursday, Gov. Doug Doucey said he was receiving updates from the head of the DPS, Col. Frank Milstead.
“The safety of Arizonans is our No. 1 priority, and we are committed to apprehending those responsible for these crimes,” Doucey said. “I ask all Arizonans to stay alert and contact authorities with any information that could lead to the arrest and prosecution of responsible parties. I assure you, this is the top priority for the Department of Public Safety and the state of Arizona.”
The attacks echo a 15-month shooting spree that killed eight people and terrorized the Phoenix area in 2005 and 2006.
Dale Hausner and Samuel Dieteman were convicted of firing shotguns and rifles at 25 people and various animals while out joyriding. At least 10 dogs and horses were also killed.
Hausner committed suicide in prison two years ago, and Dieteman is serving a life term.