Scottsdale detective Ryan So killed in gun accident, authorities say

According to a preliminary report from investigators, Scottsdale Detective Ryan So died in a gunshot accident while unloading a police vehicle.

So, a member of the Scottsdale Department’s Special Forces Unit had finished a search and arrest operation with other detectives and was unloading equipment. While he was retrieving a bag from the vehicle, a rifle fell from the bag to the ground. As it hit the asphalt, a shot went off from the weapon and struck So, investigators found.

Detectives assisted, but So succumbed to his injuries on the way to the hospital.

The report of So’s death came from Mesa police as part of their partnership with the East Valley Critical Incident Response Team. The information was released late Friday night.

“The loss of Detective So is deeply felt throughout the community,” Scottsdale police said in a statement. “We will forever honor his sacrifice and remember his legacy as a hero who dedicated his life to serving and protecting others.”

The department declined interviews at this time.

He had been in the armed forces for nine years and had served in the U.S. Navy for four years.

Officials said the accident happened near 76th Street and the Hayden Loop Greenway around 7:30 p.m. Thursday. Officials took his body to the Maricopa County Coroner’s Office.

“This is an unimaginable tragedy for both Ryan’s family and his police family at SPD. Our thoughts and prayers are with Detective So’s family, his team and everyone at our police department,” Scottsdale officials said in a social media update.

He leaves behind his wife and three children.