Phoenix police say they have finally made an arrest in the 2023 killing of a young mother whose body was found inside her car at Steele Indian School Park, announcing the development on Thursday, April 2. It is the first public break in a case that has kept the victim’s family searching for answers for more than three years. Investigators have not yet released the suspect’s name or any formal charging information.
Arrest Announced
According to 12 News, detectives arrested a suspect in connection with the Feb. 5, 2023 case on Thursday. The outlet reported that at the time of the announcement, police had not released booking information, a list of charges, or any possible motive.
Case Background
The victim was identified as 29-year-old Karrissa Danyelle Hamilton, who was discovered inside a gray Nissan Altima on Feb. 5, 2023 at Steele Indian School Park, according to ABC15. Homicide detectives said she had suffered a gunshot wound, and investigators spent months struggling to develop solid leads in the case.
Family Reaction
In November 2023, Hamilton's family stepped in front of cameras and pleaded for help, holding a news conference and, with Silent Witness, putting up a $10,000 reward for information that could lead to an arrest, FOX10 Phoenix reported. Relatives urged anyone with video, tips, or any detail at all to contact police, and they described Hamilton as a devoted single mother and an aspiring sports journalist.
Legal Status
12 News reports that authorities have not yet announced formal charges or a court date. The Maricopa County Attorney's Office typically files charges after a suspect has been booked and arraigned. Investigators have previously asked anyone with information about the original investigation to contact Phoenix Police or Silent Witness, according to earlier reporting.
What To Watch Next
In the coming days, prosecutors are expected to reveal more details if charges are formally filed, and Hamilton's family will likely keep a close eye on new court records for the first public look at the case authorities have built. For now, the arrest stands as a significant step forward in an investigation that has weighed heavily on her loved ones since 2023.
