Tucson dad who shot, killed infant son remains in critical condition

A 19-year-old man shot and killed his 9-month-old son Tuesday then turned the gun on himself, authorities say.

The father, Gabriel Huerta, was in critical condition Wednesday, the Pima County Sheriff's Department said in a news release.

The incident started about 5 p.m. when deputies were called to a home in the 5500 block of N. Shannon Rd., near Rillito River Park.

Family members told deputies Huerta made suicidal statements before leaving with his infant son in a red Ford Fusion. Meanwhile, as deputies searched the area they learned that Huerta was armed and also threatened to hurt the child, the release said.

Huerta's vehicle was eventually located near Himmel Park, near East Spedway and North Tucson Boulevard.

Huerta fled from deputies into an alley, and moments later gunshots were heard, the release said.

The infant was found with multiple gunshot wounds. Huerta was found with a self inflicted gunshot wound, the release said.

Both were taken to the hospital, where the infant died later.

Huerta remained unresponsive and in critical condition Wednesday, the release said.

The investigation continues.