Manhunt intensifies for Alex James Barnett in Tucson police recruit’s fatal shooting

A manhunt is underway for 33-year-old Alex James Barnett, the primary suspect in the August 19 shooting death of Tucson police recruit Carlos Ramirez, 23. Barnett has a lengthy criminal history with four prior prison sentences for 12 offenses since 2012. The Pima County Sheriff’s Department issued a first-degree murder warrant for Barnett and is also seeking two additional suspects. Ramirez’s pregnant fiancée, a corrections officer, was injured in the home invasion shooting but remains in stable condition.

Who is Alex James Barnett

Alex James Barnett, 33, is described as bald with distinctive arm tattoos, standing 6-foot-2 and weighing 277 pounds with brown eyes. He was last seen wearing a red shirt and leather vest, riding a maroon 2020 Harley-Davidson FLHXS motorcycle. Court records show he has been in and out of prison four times for 12 offenses since 2012, with all but one occurring in the Pima County system.

Barnett’s criminal history spans 14 years

Barnett’s convictions began in 2012 for dangerous drug violations and abuse. In 2013, he was charged and convicted of credit card fraud. A string of crimes in 2020 landed him back in prison after several years of staying out. Court records show convictions for burglary and unlawful imprisonment among other offenses.

The victim and the investigation

Carlos Ramirez, 23, was shot and killed in his southwest Tucson home on August 19. He was days away from graduating from the police academy. His pregnant fiancée, a Pima County corrections officer, was also shot and injured but is in stable condition. Sheriff Chris Nanos said the motive appears to be robbery and that investigators are working with the Tucson Police Department, FBI, and U.S. Marshals Service.

Reward offered and additional suspects sought

The Pima County Sheriff’s Department released surveillance video showing three suspects involved in the shooting. On August 21, the 88-CRIME tip line announced a reward of up to $2,500 for information leading to Barnett’s arrest. Sheriff Nanos said he expects to issue more warrants and make additional arrests as the investigation continues.

Final Thoughts

Barnett’s arrest warrant marks the first major break in the investigation into Ramirez’s death. With a $2,500 reward posted and multiple law enforcement agencies involved, authorities are moving quickly to apprehend the suspects before they flee the area.

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