TUCSON, Ariz. – On June 4, 2025, Carlos Maximilliano Galvan, 44, of Maricopa, Arizona, was sentenced to 44 years in prison by United States District Judge James A. Soto after pleading guilty to Second-Degree Murder.
Incident Overview
The charges stem from an incident on August 27, 2020, when Tohono O’Odham Police Officer Bryan Brown responded to a 911 call at Desert Diamond Casino in Why, Arizona. A suspect—later identified as Galvan—had crashed his vehicle into a handicapped parking sign and allegedly assaulted two casino employees by ramming the truck they were sitting in.
When Officer Brown arrived, he exited his police cruiser and was confronted by Galvan, who advanced aggressively while brandishing a broken bottle. As Officer Brown attempted to maneuver around his vehicle, Galvan seized the cruiser and drove directly at him. A United States Border Patrol Agent at the scene narrowly escaped, but Officer Brown was struck and killed.
Galvan’s Attempted Escape
Following the fatal attack, Galvan fled, driving the stolen cruiser across the center lane of a nearby highway. He intentionally rammed the vehicles of two Border Patrol Agents responding to assist, escalating the violent encounter.
Statements from Authorities
FBI Phoenix Acting Special Agent in Charge Jarod Brown emphasized the agency’s commitment to justice, stating:
“The FBI will not waver in ensuring that those who commit violence against law enforcement are held accountable to the fullest extent. Today, we honor Officer Bryan Brown, and we hope this sentence brings comfort to his loved ones and colleagues.”
United States Attorney Timothy Courchaine reinforced the gravity of the crime:
“The defendant not only attacked Officer Brown but our entire system of justice. Disrespect for law enforcement escalates, as seen in this tragic case, with deadly consequences. Officer Brown’s service and dedication will always be remembered.”
Investigation and Prosecution
The case was investigated by the FBI Phoenix Division’s Tucson Office, with Assistant U.S. Attorneys Frances Kreamer Hope, Alicia Renee Quezada, and Rui Wang leading the prosecution.
