Phoenix, December 11, 2025
Gary Cole Jr., 47, has been arrested for the fatal shooting of Willie Earl Dodd, which occurred nearly two years ago. The shooting incident, which unfolded near 27th Avenue and Hazelwood Street, resulted in Dodd’s death and injuries to a female companion. Cole Jr. faces multiple charges, providing closure to a case that had remained unsolved until now. The Phoenix Police Department continues to investigate the matter, committed to solving other cold cases as well.
Phoenix, Arizona
Phoenix police have arrested Gary Cole Jr., a 47-year-old man, in connection with the fatal shooting of 62-year-old Willie Earl Dodd that took place nearly two years ago. The arrest occurred on December 9, 2025, and Cole Jr. faces multiple charges including first-degree murder, tampering with physical evidence, discharging a firearm within city limits, and violating his probation.
The tragic incident unfolded on January 15, 2024, at approximately 10 p.m. near 27th Avenue and Hazelwood Street, just east of Interstate 17. Officers responded to reports of gunfire and discovered Dodd and a female companion with gunshot wounds. Both were transported to the hospital; however, Dodd succumbed to his injuries, while the woman recovered from her non-life-threatening wounds. At the time, the investigation did not yield any suspects, prompting the Silent Witness program to offer a reward for information leading to an arrest.
The apprehension of Cole Jr. provides a resolution to a case that had remained unsolved for almost two years. The Phoenix Police Department is still actively investigating the factors surrounding the shooting.
This case is part of a broader effort by the Phoenix police, which has seen several arrests related to unsolved shootings in the last year. Notably, in April 2025, 25-year-old Correy Cooks Jr. was arrested for his involvement in the shooting death of 28-year-old Lawrence Robinson in north Phoenix, and in June 2024, 24-year-old Clayveion Dontae Hendrix was charged in the death of 37-year-old Tracy Jerome Walker in central Phoenix.
The Phoenix Police Department remains committed to resolving cold cases and ensuring justice for victims and their families.
For more information or to provide tips related to this case, individuals can reach out to the Phoenix Police Department or the Silent Witness program.
Current Weather for Phoenix, AZ
As of December 11, 2025, Phoenix enjoys partly sunny weather with temperatures around 51°F (10°C).
Forecast Details
- Thursday, December 11: Low: 51°F (11°C), High: 78°F (26°C)
- Friday, December 12: Low: 51°F (11°C), High: 78°F (26°C)
- Saturday, December 13: Low: 54°F (12°C), High: 79°F (26°C)
- Sunday, December 14: Low: 56°F (13°C), High: 82°F (28°C)
- Monday, December 15: Low: 53°F (12°C), High: 79°F (26°C)
- Tuesday, December 16: Low: 53°F (11°C), High: 77°F (25°C)
- Wednesday, December 17: Low: 52°F (11°C), High: 77°F (25°C)
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was arrested in connection with the 2024 Phoenix shooting?
Gary Cole Jr., 47, was arrested on December 9, 2025, in connection with the fatal shooting of 62-year-old Willie Earl Dodd.
When did the shooting occur?
The shooting occurred on January 15, 2024, around 10 p.m., near 27th Avenue and Hazelwood Street in Phoenix.
What charges is Gary Cole Jr. facing?
Cole Jr. faces charges including first-degree murder, tampering with physical evidence, discharging a firearm within city limits, and violating his probation.
What is the current status of the investigation?
The Phoenix Police Department continues to investigate the circumstances surrounding the shooting.
How can I provide information or tips about this case?
Individuals can contact the Phoenix Police Department or the Silent Witness program to provide information or tips.
What is the current weather in Phoenix?
As of December 11, 2025, Phoenix is experiencing partly sunny weather with a temperature of 51°F (10°C).
Key Features of the Article
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Incident | Fatal shooting of 62-year-old Willie Earl Dodd on January 15, 2024 |
| Arrested Individual | Gary Cole Jr., 47, arrested on December 9, 2025 |
| Charges | First-degree murder, tampering with physical evidence, discharging a firearm within city limits, violating probation |
| Investigation Status | Ongoing by the Phoenix Police Department |
| Contact Information | Phoenix Police Department, Silent Witness program |
| Weather Update | Partly sunny, 51°F (10°C) in Phoenix as of December 11, 2025 |
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Author: STAFF HERE PHOENIX WRITER
The PHOENIX STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREPhoenix.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Phoenix, Maricopa County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Waste Management Phoenix Open, Cactus League Spring Training, and Arizona State Fair. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Phoenix Chamber of Commerce and Visit Phoenix, plus leading businesses in technology and healthcare that power the local economy such as Intel and Banner Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERETucson.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Arizona's dynamic landscape.
