Family Dispute Escalates Into Deadly Gunfire in Mesa

iSkyNews and Media January 02, 2026

By Ciara Perez, Senior Multimedia Correspondent

iSkyNews.com (ISC News) – Published January 2nd, 2026

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Family Dispute Escalates Into Deadly Gunfire in Mesa

MESA, Ariz. — Mesa Police Department detectives are investigating a fatal shooting that occurred Thursday night at an apartment complex in south Mesa.

Just before 9:00 p.m. on January 1, 2026, officers responded to reports of shots fired near West Emerald Avenue and South Stewart. Officers arrived within minutes and located several individuals near the entryway of the apartment complex, including a man suffering from multiple gunshot wounds.

The victim was identified as 35-year-old Richard Garcia. Officers immediately rendered life-saving aid until Mesa Fire and Medical personnel arrived and transported Garcia to a local hospital. Despite medical efforts, he later died from his injuries.

Investigators determined the suspect to be 18-year-old Robert Garcia, who is related to the victim. Detectives learned the two were involved in a verbal dispute that escalated outside the apartment shortly before the shooting occurred.

Based on the information gathered during the investigation, Robert Garcia was arrested and booked on a charge of Second-Degree Murder.

The investigation remains ongoing. Detectives continue to work to determine the circumstances surrounding the shooting.

🟡 This is a developing story. Stay with iSkyNews.com for updates as more information becomes available.