Tucson police cadet Carlos Ramirez, 23, was fatally shot during a home invasion on August 19, while his fiancée—also a corrections officer—was injured but survived alongside their unborn child. Authorities identified Alex James Barnett, 33, and Santiago Jorge Rogers, 39, as suspects in the killing, with Barnett taken into custody Monday evening after a three-hour standoff at an apartment complex near East Broadway Boulevard and South Camino Seco. Rogers was arrested Saturday morning at a hotel near Tucson International Airport.
Authorities confirm Barnett’s arrest after SWAT operation
Pima County Sheriff’s deputies, assisted by the Pima Regional SWAT Team and the FBI, executed a first-degree murder arrest warrant at the apartment complex around 6 p.m. Monday, leading to Barnett’s capture. No additional injuries were reported during the operation. Rogers was booked into the Pima County Adult Detention Complex without bail, while a third suspect remains at large, according to the Pima County Sheriff’s Office.
Victim’s family and fiancée receive support
Ramirez’s fiancée, a Pima County corrections officer, was hospitalized in stable condition following the shooting. Authorities have not disclosed further details about her condition or the status of their unborn child. The Tucson Police Department has not released additional statements regarding the investigation.
Suspects’ criminal histories emerge
Court records indicate Barnett, also known as Alex Wilson, has prior convictions including burglary, weapons offenses, and unlawful imprisonment from December 2024. Surveillance footage from a gas station convenience store, taken 20 minutes before the shooting, shows Rogers and Barnett in black clothing selecting items. Rogers has a history of drug-related and disorderly conduct charges in Arizona, with additional convictions for shoplifting and contraband possession in other counties.
Ongoing manhunt for third suspect
The Pima County Sheriff’s Office has located the third suspect but has not made an arrest. Authorities have not provided further details about the individual’s identity or location. The investigation remains active, with officials urging the public to report any relevant information.
Background on the incident
The shooting occurred during what authorities described as a home invasion, with suspects wearing all-black clothing and ski masks. The case triggered a Blue Alert for Barnett’s capture. The Tucson Police Department has not released additional motives or circumstances surrounding the attack.