South Phoenix, January 14, 2026
An 18-year-old suspect has been charged with murder and burglary following the discovery of a 57-year-old man’s body in a South Phoenix backyard. Police responded to a welfare check, leading to the arrest of Xzavion Johnson after he admitted to committing a burglary that resulted in the victim’s death. The ongoing investigation highlights recent concerns about crime in the area.
Phoenix
Suspect in Custody After Man Found Dead in South Phoenix Backyard
An 18-year-old suspect has been arrested and charged with murder and burglary after a 57-year-old man was discovered deceased in the backyard of a South Phoenix residence. The arrest, involving an extended barricade situation, occurred on Tuesday, January 13, 2026, after officers conducting a welfare check found the victim, David Jimenez.
Investigation Unfolds After Welfare Check
Phoenix police officers responded to a welfare check call at a home in the 5600 block of South Seely Street on Monday, January 12, 2026, at approximately 11:15 p.m. Neighbors had reported not seeing the resident, David Jimenez, for several days. Upon arrival, officers spoke with a neighbor who indicated that someone might be inside the home due to observed activity.
During their initial investigation, authorities located David Jimenez deceased in the backyard of the property. He had sustained a gunshot wound. Believing the home was occupied, officers established containment around the residence. They then contacted the individual inside, identified as 18-year-old Xzavion Johnson.
Extended Barricade and Admission of Guilt
An extended barricade situation ensued as officers worked to apprehend Johnson. Eventually, Johnson exited the home and was taken into custody. During an interview with Phoenix police homicide detectives, Johnson reportedly admitted to committing a burglary at the home, during which he shot and killed Jimenez. Johnson estimated that this incident occurred in December 2025. Furthermore, he stated that he had been living in the victim’s home since the time of the homicide. Authorities currently believe there are no additional suspects involved in this homicide. The investigation remains ongoing.
Recent Homicide Investigations in Phoenix Area
This incident is one of several recent death investigations in the Phoenix metropolitan area. On Tuesday morning, January 13, 2026, Phoenix police were also investigating another death near 1st Street and McDowell Road, where a man was found with “possible signs of trauma” after an unknown trouble call at approximately 7:15 a.m. This separate investigation also began in the last 48 hours.
Additionally, on Sunday, January 11, 2026, a man was arrested in connection with the fatal stabbing of his brother during a domestic dispute over five dollars and loud music near 17th Place and Cambridge Avenue. The victim, Timotheus Keshon Hampton, 30, was found with stab wounds and later died at a hospital. His brother, Ali-Ondre Hampton, 24, was booked into jail for murder following questioning.
In a separate event on January 7, 2026, Phoenix residents experienced disruption due to an officer-involved shooting involving Glendale police near 29th Avenue and McDowell Road. Glendale officers were attempting to apprehend a suspect linked to a domestic violence aggravated assault case when the suspect reportedly brandished a firearm, leading to the shooting. The injured suspect was transported to a hospital with potentially life-threatening injuries, and the Phoenix Police Department is investigating the incident.
These recent events underscore ongoing law enforcement efforts to address crime and ensure public safety across the Phoenix area. Investigations into these incidents are active, with authorities working to gather all facts and bring those responsible to justice.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the most critical information regarding the South Phoenix death investigation?
An 18-year-old suspect has been arrested and charged with murder and burglary after a 57-year-old man, David Jimenez, was discovered deceased in the backyard of a South Phoenix residence.
When did the arrest occur in the South Phoenix case?
The arrest, involving an extended barricade situation, occurred on Tuesday, January 13, 2026.
Where was the victim found in the South Phoenix incident?
The victim, David Jimenez, was found deceased in the backyard of a residence in the 5600 block of South Seely Street in South Phoenix.
What charges is the suspect facing?
The suspect, Xzavion Johnson, is facing charges that include murder and burglary.
Were there other recent death investigations in Phoenix?
Yes, on Tuesday morning, January 13, 2026, Phoenix police were also investigating another death near 1st Street and McDowell Road, where a man was found with “possible signs of trauma” after an unknown trouble call at approximately 7:15 a.m.
When did the suspect admit the crime happened?
The suspect, Xzavion Johnson, estimated that the incident occurred in December 2025.
Key Features of the Phoenix Homicide Investigation
| Feature | Detail | Scope |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Incident | Man found dead in backyard, suspect arrested | Local |
| Location of Primary Incident | South Phoenix (5600 block of South Seely Street) | Local |
| Date of Arrest | Tuesday, January 13, 2026 | Local |
| Victim’s Age and Name | 57-year-old David Jimenez | Local |
| Suspect’s Age and Name | 18-year-old Xzavion Johnson | Local |
| Charges Against Suspect | Murder, Burglary | Local |
| Suspect’s Admission | Admitted to shooting Jimenez during a burglary, living in the home since December 2025 | Local |
| Another Recent Investigation | Man found with “possible signs of trauma” near 1st Street and McDowell Road | Local |
| Date of Other Investigation | Tuesday morning, January 13, 2026 | Local |
| Earlier January Homicide | Brother fatally stabbed in domestic dispute over $5 (January 11, 2026) | Local |
| Officer-Involved Shooting | Glendale police involved in shooting near 29th Avenue and McDowell Road (January 7, 2026) | Local |
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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.
