Phoenix police are investigating an apparent murder-suicide between a son and his father’s girlfriend, police officials said Monday.
According to Phoenix police spokesman Sgt. Trent Crump, a 39-year-old son was in a dispute with his father’s girlfriend, 37, when he shot her Sunday night and later turned the gun on himself.
The incident happened at a home near 35th Avenue and Camelback Road around 9 p.m. The father was not home at the time of the shooting, Crump said.
The identities of the son and the girlfriend have not been released yet. Crump said the motive for the shooting is still under investigation.
A history of domestic violence
Crump said the son had a history of domestic violence and mental health issues. He had been arrested several times for assaulting his father and his father’s girlfriend, Crump said.
The son had also been hospitalized for suicidal tendencies in the past, Crump said. He had recently moved back in with his father after being evicted from his apartment.
Crump said the father had tried to help his son by providing him with a place to stay and counseling services. He said the father was devastated by the loss of his girlfriend and his son.
A call for help
Crump urged anyone who is experiencing domestic violence or mental health problems to seek help from available resources.
He said there are many organizations and agencies that offer support and assistance to victims and perpetrators of domestic violence, as well as people who are struggling with mental health issues.
He also encouraged people to call 911 if they witness or hear any signs of violence or distress in their neighborhood.
“Somebody may have heard something last night and didn’t call,” Crump said. “We always ask people to be good neighbors and call if they hear something that doesn’t sound right.”
