John Hobbs - Law Enforcement - Arizona

John Hobbs

Detective John Hobbs, age 43, died in the line of duty on March 3, 2014, at a hospital in Phoenix, Arizona.

John was a member of the Phoenix Police Department. He had 21 years of service.

John was part of a team of officers who were attempting to serve a felony warrant on William Thornton, age 28, who had recently been released from prison. He was a suspect in an attempted homicide.

Thornton fled in a vehicle and was pursued by the detectives until he crashed the vehicle. He then fled on foot. He opened fire on the detectives as they pursued him, striking Detective Hobbs and a second detective. Despite being mortally wounded, Detective Hobbs was able to return fire and fatally shot Thornton.

Both wounded detectives were transported to a local hospital in critical condition. Detective Hobbs succumbed to his wounds at the hospital.

The Phoenix Police Department is in mourning over the death of their brother. 

Michael, Archangel, Patron
Saint of the Police, pray for
John

Police Officials describe John as a spectacular officer who will be forever missed.  

Comrades describe John as a stand-up guy who was well-liked. He was a go-getter and had a sense of humor.  He was a great friend to those who knew him. 

He is also described as heroic.  He brought down the criminal even while mortally wounded himself.
 

John is survived by many loving comrades, friends and family members including his wife, Cathy; and three children, ages 10, 8 and 6.

Thank you for your service to the public, John.

Pray for all who die in the line of duty.

God save us from the Lost Ones who bring death to strangers. 

Pray that John is in heaven. Pray that he is at peace and is with God. Amen.