Yuma, Arizona - On Tuesday July 5, 2016 at 7:53 p.m. The Yuma County Sheriff’s Office was dispatched to a report of domestic violence in the 800 block of S. Avenue C. During their contact, YCSO shot one subject who was transported to Yuma Regional Medical Center with undisclosed injuries. The Deputy has no reported injuries.
The Yuma Police Department is conducting the investigation into the shooting.
Deputies from The Yuma County Sheriff’s Office, responded to the 800 Block of S. Avenue C in reference to a domestic violence disturbance. Upon arrival, they began knocking on the door to the residence intending to make contact with 24 year old Melissa Ventura. Immediately upon opening the door, Ventura attacked the deputies with a knife resulting in the Deputies discharged their weapons.
Deputies requested Rural Metro Ambulance and immediately initiated first aid on Ventura. Ventura was then transported to Yuma Regional Medical Center where she later succumbed to her injuries.
On August 5, 2016 the Yuma Police Department received the decision from Yuma County Attorney’s Office reference this case.
Yuma County Attorney’s Office conducted a thorough review of the information provided which included, but was not limited to, all YPD reports, witness statements, physical evidence, and information gathered from the scene. Based on the review, they determined the actions taken by Sergeant Russom and Deputy Olea, both of the Yuma County Sheriff’s Office (YCSO), were justified, reasonable, and appropriate. See the attached document for further.