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TUCSON - A 19-year-old ex-convict was shot and killed by Tucson Police last night while reaching for a gun that had fallen off him, police state in a news release.

At about 6:17 p.m. last night, officers responded to a report of suspicious activity in the 3200 block of South Marc, near Pantano and Golf Links, the release states. The caller reported to 911 that a man was in an alley, hiding against a wall.

Officers found the man matching the description, and made contact with him, the release states. The man identified himself as 19-year-old Aaron Hunter, and offered to get his identification from his home down the street.

While walking with Hunter, officers conducted a records check, the release states. When they arrived at Hunter's home, officers noticed he was fidgeting with his hands near his waistband. Officers were then notified that the suspect was known to carry weapons.

When Officer Ryan Green asked if Hunter had any weapons and started to pat him down, an altercation ensued, and Officer Green was pushed to the ground, the news release states. Hunter climbed over a wall into his backyard, and Officer Green followed. As Hunter slowed down, a handgun fell off of him onto the ground.

Officer Green drew his gun on Hunter, who turned and faced him. The gun that fell off Hunter was on the ground between the two men, the release states, and Hunter bent over and reached toward the gun. Officer Green fired; Hunter stepped back, and then reached for a second time in an attempt to pick weapon up, police officials state. Officer Green fired at Hunter again. Hunter then fell to the ground.

Officers rendered aid until Tucson Fire emergency personnel arrived. Hunter was taken to a nearby hospital where he died from his injuries.

Hunter was released from the Department of Corrections in October 2011, where he had served over six months for Endangerment and Weapons Misconduct.

Officer Green, and the other responding officer, Michael Burson, were placed on administrative leave, as is TPD policy following an officer-involved shooting.

Image courtesy Arizona Department of Corrections