Widow of slain deputy thanks officers for arresting 'killer of our hero'

KANAB — In neat cursive, Shawna Harris wrote a personal note to the hundreds of officers who had spent more than four days searching for the man charged with killing her husband.

The note expressed gratitude for the "diligence and bravery" of those participating in the manhunt that resulted in the capture of Scott Curley early Monday.

"Their part in bringing to justice the killer of our hero will never be forgotten. Your sacrifices are appreciated beyond words," she wrote.

"To the Kane (County) sheriff's officers and their family members, the loss of your brother is as strong as ours."

Curley, 23, is accused of shooting and killing deputy Brian Harris in an ambush-style attack on Thursday. He is charged in Arizona with first-degree murder, a class 1 felony, and officials said Monday they may pursue the death penalty.

He was arrested about 12:50 a.m. Monday at a remote house in the Lost Spring area outside Kanab. The homeowner heard a dog bark and saw a man with a rifle over his shoulder outside the home, according to the Coconino County Sheriff's Office in Arizona. He called authorities about 12:20 a.m. to report someone was trying to break into his house.

"(Curley) was attempting to get into a home to, we feel, obtain some food and water," said Coconino County Sheriff's Chief Deputy Jim Driscoll. "He was carrying a rifle the entire time."

Several tactical teams and a police helicopter responded to the area. Once police announced their presence, Curley did not try to resist arrest. Driscoll said law enforcers described him as appearing "very tired" and "cold," but he had no injuries and required no medical treatment.

"He had been up to the house and was attempting to hide," said Driscoll, who noted Curley had circled the entire house at least once. "(Police) had night vision (gear). They had a big advantage on Mr. Curley. When they made themselves known, he didn't have anywhere to go. … I don't think he knew we were coming until we were there."

Harris family members were pleased to receive word that Curley had been caught.

"It was a relief he finally decided to come in," Bert Harris, a brother, said.

"We're glad no one had to lose their life, including him," added Bonnie Harris, the deputy's mother.