Mesa Police Involved in Two Officer-Involved Shootings in Two Days, Investigations Underway
Mesa police officers were involved in two separate shootings within two consecutive days this week, both of which are currently under investigation by the East Valley Critical Incident Response Team. The first incident occurred on Monday near Mesa Drive and McKellips, where officers shot a man who neighbors reported was making threats with a gun. This individual later died from police gunfire, and his name has not yet been released. The second incident took place on Tuesday afternoon near South McQueen and East Frye in Chandler. Mesa officers were attempting to arrest Dwayne Varela, 47, in connection with a domestic violence call originating in Mesa. Police stated that Varela was seen carrying a rifle, leading to the shooting. Both investigations are in their early stages, with authorities providing limited details. Neighbors in Chandler described the scene as unusual for their typically quiet area, hearing loudspeakers and attempts to get the suspect out of a house. 
