Tragedy unfolded early Sunday morning when a house party in Phoenix ended with gunfire and the death of 26-year-old Gabriel Gillespie. Phoenix Police responded to reports of a shooting near Baseline Road and 35th Avenue around 4:30 a.m., according to FOX 10 Phoenix. Witnesses at the scene indicated that the incident emerged out of a gathering at a nearby rental property.
Arriving officers discovered Gillespie deceased with at least one gunshot wound, as reported by 12News. While canvassing for evidence, homicide investigators discovered there were two separate shooting scenes. A clouded narrative emerged, with it being unclear whether Gillespie was the intended target or an innocent bystander caught between the gunfire.
Police have arrested 19-year-old Kason Nelson concerning the incident. Nelson faces charges related to weapons violations and unlawful discharge of a firearm. "Evidence confirmed two suspects were shooting at each other. It is unknown if Gabriel was the intended target or was caught in the crossfire," Sgt. Mayra Reeson said, as described by FOX 10 Phoenix.
Authorities continue their investigation and urge anyone with information to step forward. Silent Witness can be contacted at 480-WITNESS, offering confidentiality and the possibility of a cash reward for those whose tips lead to further arrests.
