One Dead, One Seriously Injured in Sun City West Care Facility Shooting
SUN CITY WEST, Ariz. — A tragic shooting at a Sun City West care facility on Monday afternoon has left one person dead and another hospitalized with life-threatening injuries, according to law enforcement officials.
The Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office (MCSO) reported that deputies were dispatched to the facility just after 2:00 p.m., following multiple 911 calls of shots fired inside the building. Upon arrival, deputies found two victims suffering from gunshot wounds.
One victim was pronounced dead at the scene, while the second was rushed to a nearby hospital in critical condition. Authorities have not yet released the names of the victims pending notification of family members.
Facility Placed on Lockdown
The care facility was immediately placed on lockdown as deputies secured the premises and evacuated residents and staff to safety. Witnesses described chaotic scenes as frightened employees ushered patients into safe rooms while law enforcement officers swept the facility.
MCSO officials emphasized that the incident was quickly contained and there is no ongoing threat to the broader community.
Suspect in Custody
Deputies confirmed that a suspect has been taken into custody without further incident. While the exact circumstances of the shooting remain under investigation, officials indicated that the suspect and the victims were known to one another, and this appears to be an isolated incident rather than a random act of violence.
Community Reaction
The shooting has shocked residents of Sun City West, a retirement and care-centered community typically known for its quiet and peaceful environment. Family members of residents rushed to the facility after news of the incident spread, desperate for reassurance about their loved ones’ safety.
Neighbors described the event as “unthinkable,” with one long-time resident saying, “We came here for peace and security. To hear that something like this could happen in a care facility where people are most vulnerable is heartbreaking.”
Investigation Ongoing
The Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office Homicide Unit is leading the investigation. Detectives are interviewing witnesses, reviewing surveillance footage, and gathering evidence to determine what led up to the shooting.
Authorities have not released information regarding a possible motive, but updates are expected as the investigation progresses.
Counseling and Support Offered
In the wake of the tragedy, grief counselors and crisis response teams are being made available to residents, staff, and families impacted by the shooting. Community leaders stressed the importance of offering support and compassion as the facility and surrounding community work to recover from the traumatic incident.
