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Suspect arrested after “shots fired” calls in Claypool

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On Wednesday, August 3, an armed man who reportedly barricaded himself inside a travel trailer in Claypool was arrested and booked into the Gila County Jail.

At around 11:30 that morning, the Gila County Sheriff’s Office received several reports of shots fired in the area of Old Oak Street and Copper Street. Deputies responded to the scene, along with Globe and Miami Police officers. According to a Sheriff’s Office press release, it was determined that the suspect fired at least one shot but no one was  injured. It was believed the suspect, still armed, was barricaded inside a travel trailer. The suspect did not exit the trailer after  deputies’ announcements for him to come out, and a SWAT team was called in to assist.

It was then learned that the suspect, identified as 45-year-old Steven Coombs, of Globe, was no longer in the trailer; he had made his way to another Claypool residence.  The SWAT team proceeded to that residence, where Coombs surrendered and was taken into custody without incident; no injuries were reported. During the episode Miami schools were put on lockdown, due to their close proximity.

Coombs was arrested and booked on one count each of aggravated assault, misconduct involving weapons and possession of drug paraphernalia. Charges may be added as the investigation continues.