Phoenix, Arizona – Jesse Benich, a 53-year-old resident of Phoenix, has been identified as the victim in a tragic shooting that took place in a west Phoenix alleyway early Tuesday morning.
The Phoenix Police Department responded to a welfare check at approximately 6:50 a.m. in the area of 7th Avenue and Solano Drive, where they discovered Benich unresponsive and suffering from at least one gunshot wound. Despite immediate efforts by first responders, Benich was pronounced dead at the scene.
The circumstances leading to the shooting remain under investigation, with authorities treating the incident as a homicide. The news of Benich’s death has left the local community in shock, particularly given the normally quiet nature of the neighborhood.
A resident living near the scene, who wished to remain anonymous, expressed concerns about safety in the area. "It’s unsettling to think something like this could happen so close to home. We’ve always felt safe here, but now, I’m not so sure," the neighbor shared.
Phoenix police are urging anyone with information related to the incident to come forward. They have highlighted the importance of community involvement in solving cases like this and encourage anyone who might have seen or heard something unusual to contact Silent Witness at 480-WITNESS or 480-TESTIGO for Spanish speakers. Tips can be given anonymously, and rewards are offered for information leading to an arrest.
As the investigation continues, no suspects have been identified, and a motive for the shooting has yet to be established. Detectives are actively pursuing several leads, hoping to uncover more details as the case develops.
Jesse Benich’s death is a stark reminder of the ongoing issue of gun violence in Phoenix, as the community grapples with the loss and the urgent need for justice.