Tucson police fire cop accused of fatally shooting 61-year-old man in wheelchair

A Tucson police officer has been fired after he was accused of fatally shooting a 61-year-old man in a wheelchair, authorities said Tuesday.

Police announced at a news conference Tuesday that Officer Ryan Remington was terminated for excessive use of force as the victim was shot nine times.

Tucson Police Chief Chris Magnus said he was “deeply disturbed and troubled” by Remington’s actions and the case is under review by the Pima County Attorney’s Office.

Tucson Mayor Regina Romero said Remington’s actions were “unconscionable and indefensible” and the County Attorney’s Office has her full support as they proceed with their investigation.

It was unclear Tuesday if Remington has a lawyer.

Police said Remington, a four-year veteran, was working off-duty security at a Walmart on Monday night.

An employee told Remington a man in a wheelchair allegedly stole a toolbox from the store.

According to police, Remington and the store employee followed the man and asked for a receipt.

Witnesses said the wheelchair-bound man — later identified as Richard Lee Richards — ignored Remington’s request, pulled out a knife and kept moving toward a home improvement store.

Remington allegedly ordered Richards not to enter the store, but the man ignored the police officer before he was fatally shot.