By: Ciara Perez | Investigative Journalist | iSkyNews.com (ISC News)
Published November 15th, 2025
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Three Arrested After Months-Long Investigation Into Mesa Teen’s Killing
Mesa, AZ – After nearly six months of nonstop investigative work, Mesa Police have announced the arrest of three suspects connected to the May 2025 shooting that left a 16-year-old boy dead and another victim injured.
The shooting happened on May 21, 2025, around 10:00 p.m., at an apartment complex located at 1439 S. Val Vista Drive. When officers arrived, they found two people suffering from gunshot wounds. Both were rushed to the hospital, but one of the victims — a 16-year-old male — did not survive.
From the beginning, homicide detectives believed three young men could be involved:
- • Bre’on Ballard, 18
- • Nikko Cartier, who was 18 at the time
- • Jameeier White, who was 19 at the time
Even with early leads, detectives needed more than suspicion. Over the next several months, they interviewed witnesses, served search warrants across Mesa and several other Valley cities, and collected multiple firearms. Much of the evidence was sent for forensic testing, which police say was crucial in helping them finally move forward.
Once detectives felt they had enough to support the case, they submitted first-degree murder charges to the Maricopa County Attorney’s Office. Arrest warrants were issued soon after.
- • Ballard was taken into custody last week in California.
- • Cartier and White were arrested on Friday, November 14, 2025.
All three suspects are now being held on a $2 million bond.
Mesa Police say the investigation remains active and more information may be released as the case progresses.
Stay tuned to iSkyNews.com for the latest local news.
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