Three 18-year-olds from Yuma are now behind bars after being arrested in Avondale on Saturday in connection with a deadly shooting that killed 18-year-old Valentin Morales in Yuma last Sunday. Investigators say they followed a series of leads that brought them more than 150 miles northwest to Avondale on May 2.
What police say
According to a news release from the Yuma Police Department, officers were called around 7:48 p.m. on Sunday to reports of shots fired in the 500 block of S. 15th Avenue. When they arrived, they found an unresponsive man, began life-saving measures and had him taken to Onvida Health, where he later died from his injuries.
Detectives said the early investigation indicates a white 4-door sedan pulled up, someone inside fired multiple rounds, then the car took off heading south. Police later identified the victim as 18-year-old Valentin Morales.
Yuma police are asking anyone with information to call (928) 783-4421 or 78-Crime at (928) 782-7463.
Community reaction
In the days after the shooting, family and friends launched a GoFundMe to help cover funeral expenses and shared memories of Morales as a constantly smiling teen who had just turned 18. Those efforts and the family’s public comments were reported by KAWC, underscoring how deeply the killing rattled those who knew him.
Arrests in Avondale
On May 2, Avondale police arrested three 18-year-olds identified as Julius Avery Johnson, Antwan De'Shawn Yancey and Moises Murillo. The three were taken into custody in Avondale and now face multiple felony counts, including first-degree murder, according to reporting by ABC15 Arizona.
ABC15 Arizona also reported that Tempe and Glendale police worked with Avondale officers during the operation that led to the trio’s arrests.
Investigation continues
The Yuma Police Department says the case is still very much active as detectives work with partner agencies to collect evidence and piece together exactly what happened. Officials say they plan to release additional information as it becomes available and are again urging anyone with tips, surveillance video or other potential evidence to reach out to investigators, according to the Yuma Police Department.
Charges and next steps
Per ABC15 Arizona, Johnson, Yancey and Murillo each face multiple felony charges, including first-degree murder. Formal charging documents, arraignment dates and any prosecution timelines have not yet been made public. Prosecutors are expected to move forward with filings as investigators continue to build the case.
