News Summary
In a devastating incident, 14-year-old Jeremiah Ricci was accidentally shot and killed at a Phoenix motel. The police investigation has led to the detention of several individuals, including the victim’s mother, Jewell Griffen, who may face multiple charges. Eyewitnesses reported hearing screams and saw the mother covered in blood. The situation raises critical concerns about firearm safety, particularly involving minors, as the community mourns this tragic loss.
Phoenix – A tragic incident on Sunday night, August 10, 2025, led to the accidental shooting death of 14-year-old Jeremiah Ricci at a motel near 27th Avenue and Union Hills Drive. The boy was pronounced dead at the scene shortly after authorities responded to reports of a shooting at approximately 10:45 p.m.
Upon arriving at the motel, police discovered Jeremiah unresponsive and sustained a gunshot wound. The Phoenix Fire Department confirmed his death shortly thereafter. As part of the ongoing investigation, officers detained multiple individuals for questioning, including the victim’s mother, 40-year-old Jewell Griffen.
Reports indicate that Griffen allowed Jeremiah and his teenage brother to handle a firearm within the motel room. During this time, the firearm accidentally discharged, resulting in the fatal injury to Jeremiah. Following the incident, Griffen reportedly left the scene but returned later that night, at which point she was taken into custody.
Jewell Griffen is currently facing several charges, including child abuse. Authorities have indicated that additional charges could be filed as the investigation progresses. The police have confirmed that their investigation remains active and more information may be provided in the future.
Witness Accounts
Neighboring guests reported hearing a loud crash followed by screams emanating from the motel room. One witness described seeing a woman, later identified as Griffen, covered in blood while exclaiming that her son had been shot. These statements have contributed to the ongoing investigation as police seek a clearer understanding of the events leading up to the shooting.
Aftermath and Next Steps
As the police continue to gather information, notifications to Jeremiah’s next of kin are pending. The emotional toll of this tragic event continues to resonate within the community, as families grapple with the implications of gun safety, particularly involving minors.
Background Context
This incident highlights broader concerns over firearm safety and the responsibilities of adults in preventing access to guns by children and teenagers. Numerous safety campaigns across the country emphasize the importance of securely storing firearms to prevent accidental shootings, especially in situations involving young individuals. The consequences of such tragic accidents underscore the necessity for vigilance and safety protocols in homes.
This incident was originally reported on August 11, 2025, but updated details have emerged as the investigation unfolds. As authorities work diligently to uncover the circumstances surrounding Jeremiah Ricci’s death, the community remains in mourning for the loss of a young life.
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Additional Resources
- AZFamily: Teen identified in accidental shooting at Phoenix motel, mother arrested
- Wikipedia: Accidental shooting
- KTAR: Phoenix motel shooting: Teen named
- Google Search: accidental shooting phoenix motel
- Fox10 Phoenix: Man dead following shooting at north Phoenix motel
- Google Scholar: firearm safety teen
- AZFamily: 1 dead, 1 detained after shooting in north Phoenix
- Encyclopedia Britannica: firearm accidents
Author: STAFF HERE PHOENIX WRITER
PHOENIX STAFF 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.
