Authorities investigating series of highway shootings in Phoenix

 By 
Marcus Gilmer
 on 
Original image replaced with Mashable logo
Original image has been replaced. Credit: Mashable

The Arizona Department of Public Safety is investigating a pair of incidents that could be part of a string of shootings on Phoenix-area highways over the past two weeks.

On Tuesday, authorities said they were investigating nine cases in which drivers on Phoenix-area highways were targeted. Authorities have said the incidents have occurred along portions of Interstate 10. A reward of $20,000 has been offered and officials say they've received over 100 tips.

#I10Shooter still at large and getting bolder. $20K reward offered. 1-10 from SR51-43rd Ave targeted. #fox10phoenix pic.twitter.com/sL8mj4imEs— Kari Lake (@KariLakeFox10) September 9, 2015

One of Wednesday's incidents, which occurred at I-10 and 35th Avenue, involved a pick-up truck.

What appears to be shattered window of pick-up truck "hit by projectile" on I-10 pic.twitter.com/TNLHiyZNSM— Mike Watkiss (@mikewatkiss3tv) September 9, 2015

Officials aren't sure yet if all of the incidents are connected or if a copycat could be involved.

Alert: #i10shooter DPS investigates scene at 35th Ave & I-10. 10th incident along freeway happened 11am this morning— FOX 10 Phoenix (@FOX10Phoenix) September 9, 2015

Arizona Department of Public Safety Director Frank Milstead called the incidents "domestic terrorism crimes."

"Anytime that you have multiple shootings against American citizens on a highway, that's terrorism," Milstead said. "They're trying to frighten or kill somebody."

His agency brought in the FBI, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms and local police to help with the investigation.

Shootings along I-10 under investigation by detectives and state troopers. Read more here: http://t.co/HPp4VfyvXt pic.twitter.com/sXaZLFI1QQ— Ariz. State Troopers (@Arizona_DPS) August 30, 2015

If you see suspicious activity, contact @Arizona_DPS at 602-644-5805. pic.twitter.com/3ahsqHU8rd— Arizona DOT (@ArizonaDOT) September 9, 2015

The Arizona Republic has plotted several of the shootings on a map, showing the segment of highway where they've occurred.

Additional reporting by the Associated Press

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