Tucson mass shooting suspect facing charges

Tucson police identified 21-year-old David French as the suspect accused of shooting nine people early July 19 near Congress Street and Sixth Avenue, outside Empire Pizza. Officers in the area heard gunfire and responded.

Police said the shooting followed a confrontation between two groups who knew each other. French allegedly ignored officers’ commands and tried to flee, prompting officers to shoot him.

French faces nine counts each of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon and aggravated assault causing serious physical injury. He also faces a charge of discharging a firearm at a structure. Police said additional charges may be filed.

French and the nine victims were hospitalized. French remained hospitalized, while police said many of the victims had been released. Nearby downtown businesses were closed during the investigation, and workers said the shooting raised concerns about safety and business. Information and video can be reported to 88-CRIME at 520-882-7463.