Local detective dies in roll-over accident

A former Maricopa resident and Gila River Indian Community police detective died in a single-vehicle accident early Sunday near the Wild Horse Pass Hotel and Casino.

Michael Roanhorse was off duty when he crashed and rolled his vehicle. The man was ejected from the vehicle and died on scene, Gila River Police Chief Derek Arnson told the Arizona Republic.

“Mike, unfortunately, was not wearing a seatbelt,” Arnson said.

Roanhorse served with the Gila River police department for four years and had recently been promoted to the rank of detective. He grew up in Maricopa and was a member of the Navajo Nation.

Roanhorse is survived by his parents and two sons, ages 6 and 9.

Donations to help support the Roanhorse family can be made to the 100 Club of Arizona at www.100club.org.