A Phoenix man who fired repeatedly during a police response to a neighborhood disturbance has been sentenced to 20 years in state prison, closing a case that prosecutors described as an extreme escalation of a call for help.
The incident occurred two years ago when officers with the Phoenix Police Department responded to reports of gunfire at a residence. According to the Maricopa County Attorney’s Office, officers encountered Eberto Hernandez inside the home armed with a handgun, despite being legally prohibited from possessing a firearm.
Authorities say Hernandez discharged the weapon repeatedly while seated on a couch as officers remained outside the residence. During the chaos, his mother attempted to intervene and was nearly struck as she tried to wrestle the gun away. Prosecutors said more than 20 rounds were fired inside the home before she successfully disarmed him.
Hernandez later surrendered without officers entering the residence. No officers were injured, but prosecutors emphasized that the situation posed a grave risk to everyone involved.
Following a jury trial, Hernandez was convicted on multiple felony counts, including aggravated assault against police officers, unlawful discharge of a firearm, and disorderly conduct. The court also imposed an additional 2.5-year sentence for violating probation, to be served consecutively.
Rachel Mitchell, Maricopa County Attorney, said the sentence reflects the seriousness of using a firearm to threaten both law enforcement and family members, adding that prohibited possessors who engage in gun violence will face severe consequences.
