Ax-wielding assault suspect shot, killed by officers near Meridian and Elliot roads in Mesa

Mesa police shot and killed a man who they said was armed with an ax Monday evening near Meridian and Elliot roads. Officers were called to the area around 7 p.m. after several 911 calls reported an assault outside a home.

Police said the man was accused of attacking his ex-wife and children with a shovel. Callers also reported damage to nearby vehicles and said the man might have had an ax and a firearm. Several neighbors reportedly tried to intervene before officers arrived.

An officer gave the man verbal commands, but police said he was holding an ax when the officer-involved shooting occurred. Officers and Mesa Fire and Medical personnel provided life-saving treatment, but the man was pronounced dead at the scene.

Police said there is no continuing threat to the community. No other injuries were reported, and the investigation remains ongoing.