Mesa, January 3, 2026
A tragic shooting in Mesa occurred during a New Year’s Day gathering, resulting in the death of 35-year-old Richard Garcia. The incident stemmed from a family dispute that escalated, leading to multiple gunshot wounds. Richard was pronounced dead after being transported to the hospital. His cousin, 18-year-old Robert Garcia, has been arrested and is facing a charge of second-degree murder. The investigation continues as police gather further details surrounding this tragic event.
Mesa, Arizona
Man Dies in New Year’s Day Shooting Following Family Dispute
A New Year’s Day gathering in Mesa tragically ended with the death of a 35-year-old man following a family dispute that escalated into a shooting. Richard Garcia was identified as the victim, who succumbed to multiple gunshot wounds after an altercation at an apartment complex located in the area of West Emerald Avenue and South Stewart. Police responded to reports of gunshots just before 9 p.m. on January 1, 2026, leading to the arrest of 18-year-old Robert Garcia, who is now facing a second-degree murder charge in connection with the incident.
Details of the Incident
Mesa police officers were dispatched to the apartment complex after receiving calls about gunfire. Upon arrival, they discovered Richard Garcia suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. Emergency services transported him to a local hospital, where he later died from his injuries. The investigation quickly identified Robert Garcia, a cousin of the victim, as the suspect in the fatal shooting.
Escalation of Family Argument
Initial findings from police indicate that the tragic event stemmed from a violent family dispute. According to court records, Richard Garcia had reportedly arrived at the apartment where his cousin, Robert Garcia, resided and initiated an argument. Several family members were present at the apartment, including Robert’s parents, sister, and girlfriend. Witnesses informed police that Richard was perceived to be under the influence of alcohol and was attempting to provoke a fight with Robert.
The situation intensified when Robert Garcia went back inside the apartment, informing his girlfriend of his intention to retrieve Richard’s belongings from his car. As Robert returned outside, family members and a neighbor reported hearing “several pops,” indicating gunshots. Robert Garcia later told authorities that Richard had attempted to physically assault him, striking him in the head. In response to this alleged assault, Robert stated he drew a gun.
Following the gunfire, witnesses observed Richard Garcia stepping backward and bleeding. Family members recounted seeing Robert Garcia praying over his cousin while Robert’s father made the urgent 911 call for assistance. The events unfolded rapidly, culminating in the fatal injuries sustained by Richard Garcia.
Arrest and Legal Proceedings
Following the preliminary investigation and witness accounts, Robert Garcia was taken into custody. He has been formally arrested on a charge of second-degree murder. The Mesa Police Department’s homicide detectives are actively continuing their investigation to gather all facts and circumstances surrounding the shooting.
New Year’s Holiday Incidents Across Arizona
The New Year’s holiday period saw various law enforcement responses across Arizona. In a separate incident on New Year’s Eve in Mesa, four individuals sustained stab wounds during a large brawl near Gilbert and Broadway roads. Alcohol was reported to be a factor, and despite multiple interviews, no arrests were made due to conflicting accounts of the event. All detained individuals were subsequently released. Elsewhere, in South Phoenix, a 19-year-old suspect was arrested for a deadly stabbing that also occurred on New Year’s Day, resulting in the death of 34-year-old Gilbert Ray Ayonayon II. Additionally, Gila County authorities are seeking a person of interest in a New Year’s Day shooting that resulted in the death of a juvenile. Mesa also saw a separate incident where a man died after being struck by a golf cart. These incidents underscore a busy period for emergency services and law enforcement throughout the region.
Frequently Asked Questions
-
What happened in Mesa on New Year’s Day?
A man died after a shooting in Mesa on New Year’s Day, following a family dispute. Richard Garcia, 35, was killed, and 18-year-old Robert Garcia was arrested. -
Who was the victim of the Mesa shooting?
The victim of the Mesa shooting was 35-year-old Richard Garcia. -
Who was arrested in connection with the Mesa shooting?
18-year-old Robert Garcia was arrested in connection with the Mesa shooting. -
What was the relationship between the victim and the suspect?
The victim, Richard Garcia, and the suspect, Robert Garcia, are cousins. -
Where did the shooting occur?
The shooting occurred at an apartment complex in Mesa, in the area of West Emerald Avenue and South Stewart. -
What led to the shooting?
The shooting occurred after a family dispute escalated, with Richard Garcia reportedly starting an argument and attempting to fight Robert Garcia, who then pulled a gun. -
What charge is the suspect facing?
Robert Garcia is facing a charge of second-degree murder.
Key Details of the Mesa New Year’s Day Shooting
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Event | Fatal shooting |
| Victim | 35-year-old Richard Garcia |
| Suspect | 18-year-old Robert Garcia |
| Relationship | Cousins |
| Location | Apartment complex in Mesa, Arizona (West Emerald Avenue and South Stewart area) |
| Date | New Year’s Day (January 1, 2026) |
| Time | Just before 9 p.m. |
| Alleged Cause | Escalation of a family dispute |
| Charge | Second-degree murder |
| Investigation Status | Ongoing |
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