11:50 a.m. UPDATE
A suspect is in jail in connection to a deadly overnight shooting in Buckeye, according to a statement released today from the Buckeye Police Department.
Officers responded to a call at about 8:15 p.m. Thursday night to reports of shots fired near Elwood St. and 257th Lane.
According to police, officers located three female victims suffering from gunshots wounds. Two of the victims, a 17-year-old pregnant girl and a 22-year-old woman, were rushed to the hospital where they remain in critical condition.
A third victim, identified as 16-year-old Rylee Montgomery, who was also pregnant, died on scene, according to Buckeye police.
Police stated that "initial information indicated the victims had been shot outside a home on Elwood St. and that two males were seen running from the scene before officers arrived. The victims and suspect knew each other."
During their investigation, the suspected shooter was identified as 18-year-old Michael Sanchez, who was in a romantic relationship with Montgomery, according to Buckeye police. Police tracked Sanchez to a home in Avondale where they took him into custody with assistance from the U.S. Marshals Service and Avondale Police.
Sanchez has been booked into jail on multiple felony charges.
"Buckeye police thanks our community and law enforcement partners for your assistance in the swift apprehension of this dangerous and violent suspect," Buckey police stated.
Original Story
Police in Buckeye say a suspect has been taken into custody following a triple shooting that left one person dead and two others seriously injured.
"BPD, with assistance from U.S. Marshals and Avondale PD located and apprehended our suspect at a home in that area," stated Public Information Officer Carissa Planalp.
According to authorities, the shooting occurred near the intersection of Miller Road and Warner Street, prompting a significant police response and a temporary call for the public to avoid the area.
Investigators initially reported that three female victims, ranging in age from 16 to 20, were struck by gunfire. Two of the victims — including one who was reportedly pregnant — were transported to a hospital with serious injuries. Despite life-saving efforts at the scene, one victim was pronounced dead.
Police had been searching for two male suspects who fled the scene before officers arrived. In a later update, officials confirmed that one suspect is now in custody. It remains unclear whether additional suspects are still being sought.
Authorities credited community members and law enforcement partners for their assistance during the investigation.
The incident remains under active investigation. Anyone with additional information is urged to contact Buckeye police or submit an anonymous tip through the city’s crime tip portal.
This story will be updated.
