Suspect Arrested After Shootout with Arizona DPS Troopers

Four troopers injured during high-risk warrant service in central Phoenix

Feb. 7, 2026 at 2:31pm

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A 51-year-old suspect, Darrelle Bell, was arrested on multiple charges including 18 counts of attempted first-degree murder of a law enforcement officer after a shootout with Arizona DPS troopers in central Phoenix. Four troopers were injured, with one sustaining a gunshot wound, during the incident that occurred as SWAT was serving a high-risk search warrant.

Why it matters

The incident highlights the dangers law enforcement officers face when executing high-risk warrants, as well as the potential for violence from suspects with criminal histories. It also raises questions about how to improve safety protocols and de-escalation tactics to protect both officers and suspects during such operations.

The details

According to officials, around 7 p.m. on Thursday, DPS SWAT personnel were serving a high-risk search warrant at a residence near I-17 and West Indian School Road. The suspect, Darrelle Bell, was wanted on a felony grand jury warrant for weapons misconduct and drug possession. As SWAT prepared to enter the residence, two people outside alerted Bell to the presence of law enforcement. Bell then opened fire on the troopers, who returned fire. Bell was struck by a non-life-threatening gunshot wound and was treated at the hospital.

  • The incident occurred around 7 p.m. on Thursday, February 6, 2026.
  • Bell was arrested and booked into the Maricopa County jail following the shootout.

The players

Darrelle Bell

A 51-year-old suspect who was wanted on a felony grand jury warrant for weapons misconduct and drug possession. He was arrested on 18 counts of attempted first-degree murder of a law enforcement officer, among other charges.

Arizona Department of Public Safety (DPS)

The state law enforcement agency whose SWAT team was serving the high-risk search warrant that led to the shootout.

Phoenix Police Department

The lead agency investigating the case.

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What’s next

Bell is being held on a $1 million cash-only bond. The Phoenix Police Department is the lead agency on this case and will continue the investigation.

The takeaway

This incident underscores the risks and challenges law enforcement officers face when executing high-risk warrants, and the need for continued improvements in safety protocols, de-escalation tactics, and coordination between agencies to protect both officers and suspects during such operations.