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'We lost a good man': Off-duty MCSO deputy killed in Scottsdale crash

Lt. Chad Brackman was hit by a vehicle while working traffic control off-duty on 87th Street and McDowell Road.

SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. — A Maricopa County Sheriff's Office deputy was killed in a Scottsdale crash Wednesday after he was allegedly hit by a 69-year-old driver, authorities said.

Lt. Chad Brackman was hit by a vehicle while working traffic control off-duty on 87th Street and McDowell Road, the Scottsdale Police Department said. 

Police said the driver broke through traffic barriers in a construction zone and collided with Brackman.

Police have not yet said whether the 69-year-old Scottsdale woman who was driving the car will face any criminal charges. Because of that, 12 News is choosing not to identify the driver.

The 22-year MCSO veteran was taken to the hospital with serious injuries where he later died.

"We have not only lost a member of the law enforcement community, we lost a good man," Sheriff Paul Penzone, who knew Brackman personally, explained. "There's something heavier when we lose someone dedicated to their community and helping others."

Police said the driver of the vehicle that hit Brackman was the lone occupant and was also taken to the hospital with injuries. It's unclear if they will face criminal charges.

Deputy struck by Vehicle

Posted by Maricopa County Sheriff's Office on Wednesday, November 10, 2021

McDowell Road between Granite Reef and Pima Road was closed for investigation.

Gov. Doug Ducey has ordered flags at all state buildings to be lowered to half-staff until Friday afternoon in honor of Brackman. 

“Arizona is saddened by this terrible tragedy,” Ducey said. “Lieutenant Chad Brackman served his communities and our state honorably, and he had a deep devotion to public safety throughout his 22 years of service."

Brackman is the second deputy from the MCSO to die within the past month. On Oct. 9, deputy Juan "Johnny" Ruiz died from injuries he sustained while attempting to detain 30-year-old Clinton Hurley at the MCSO substation in Avondale.

This is a developing story. Stay with 12 News as more information becomes available. 

RELATED: 2021 is on pace to be one of the deadliest years ever on Arizona Roadways

RELATED: Service held for Maricopa County Deputy Juan 'Johnny' Ruiz

The Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) offers driving tips to help keep people safe on the road. 

"There’s always room for improvement when it comes to road safety," the department said on its website. 

ADOT's suggestions include: 

  • Don’t speed or drive aggressively 
  • Never drive while under the influence of substances 
  • Avoid distractions while driving 
  • Wear your seatbelt and make sure all passengers are doing the same 
  • When an emergency vehicle is on the side of the road, move over 
  • Stay extra aware in work zones 
  • Be prepared for weather conditions that make driving dangerous

Find more tips on the department's Driving Safety Homepage on ADOT's website here. 

RELATED: New car tech to stop drunk drivers required under infrastructure bill

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