Phoenix Mother Pleads for Justice in Unsolved Murder Case

Phoenix, Arizona, January 14, 2026

In Phoenix, Arizona, Julie McNally Ferer has renewed her plea for justice four years after the unsolved murder of her son, Joseph McNally. Fatally shot in July 2021, Joseph’s case remains open as authorities continue to seek information from the public. Julie has been actively engaging the community in hopes of generating new leads. This case is part of a larger nationwide struggle faced by families of unsolved murder victims who advocate tirelessly for justice.

Phoenix Mother Continues Plea for Justice Four Years After Son’s Unsolved Murder

Phoenix, Arizona – Four years after the tragic unsolved murder of Joseph McNally, his mother, Julie McNally Ferer, is once again speaking out, renewing her plea for information and witnesses in the hope of bringing his killer to justice. The murder, which occurred in July 2021, remains an open investigation, and authorities continue to seek public assistance to apprehend those responsible.

Details of the Unsolved Case

Joseph McNally, then 28 years old, was fatally shot on July 30, 2021, in the area of 11400 North 28th Drive in Phoenix, near Peoria Avenue and Cactus Road. Investigators reported that a dark-colored compact SUV, described as a 2000-2010 model and possibly a Lexus, was seen fleeing the scene with several occupants shortly after the shooting. Despite ongoing efforts, detectives currently have limited information and no active leads in the case.

A Mother’s Relentless Pursuit of Answers

For Julie McNally Ferer, the pain of losing her eldest son remains profound, and her determination to find answers has not waned. Since the immediate aftermath of the murder, she has actively participated in efforts to gather information, including distributing flyers in the community. She has publicly stated her resolve not to let Joseph’s case fade into a cold case. Her recent appeal, coming four years after the incident, is an earnest attempt to prompt new leads and encourage anyone with knowledge to come forward.

Authorities urge anyone who might have witnessed the incident or possesses any information regarding Joseph McNally’s murder to contact the Silent Witness program. Tips can be submitted anonymously, and individuals providing information that leads to a felony arrest may be eligible for a cash reward.

Nationwide Struggle: Families Seeking Justice in Unsolved Murders

The plight of Joseph McNally’s family mirrors a broader, nationwide struggle faced by many who grieve loved ones lost to unsolved violence. Across the United States, families persistently advocate for justice, keeping the memories of victims alive and pushing for breakthroughs in stalled investigations.

Echoes of Grief and Persistence in Other Communities

In Flint, Michigan, the mother of David Walker continues to seek justice two decades after his unsolved murder. David Walker, a 34-year-old store clerk, was shot to death on September 3, 2005, during his night shift at J.J.’s Market. Robbery did not appear to be the motive in his killing. A reward of up to $2,500 is available through Crimestoppers for information leading to a felony arrest.

Meanwhile, in Natchitoches, Louisiana, a mother is sharing her heartbreak after her 15-year-old son, Daylon Harris, was shot and killed on University Drive. Her quest for answers highlights the ongoing pain and community impact of such tragedies. [cite: original prompt snippet]

In Oakland, California, the mother of Patrick Scott, Jr., Carol Jones, remains hopeful for justice. Patrick Scott, Jr., who was 27 years old and had a disability, was fatally shot on February 3, 2018, while waiting at a bus stop at 62nd Street and Market Street. An unknown assailant approached him and fired multiple shots. The FBI has offered a reward of up to $20,000, supplemented by an additional $10,000 from Oakland Crime Stoppers, bringing the total reward to $30,000 for information leading to an arrest. Carol Jones has undertaken her own efforts to solve the murder, including distributing thousands of flyers in the neighborhood.

The case of Jasper Junious, who was 19 years old when he was taken on June 25, 2002, in an unspecified location, also remains unsolved, with his mother still awaiting justice more than two decades later. [cite: original prompt snippet]

These individual cases underscore the deep and lasting impact of violent crime on families, who often become advocates themselves in their search for closure. The persistent efforts of these mothers exemplify the enduring hope that new information, no matter how small, could ultimately lead to the resolution of these long-standing mysteries. Many advocacy groups and law enforcement agencies emphasize that public engagement and tips are crucial in solving cold cases and bringing perpetrators to account.

Beyond Unsolved: Continued Advocacy After Conviction

While many families seek answers in unsolved cases, some continue their advocacy even after a perpetrator is identified and convicted. In Independence, Missouri, Corey Laykovich was tragically stabbed to death in July 2013. His killer, John Seger, pleaded guilty to voluntary manslaughter in 2016 and received a 9-year prison sentence. Corey’s mother, Michelle Norris, has since established “Corey’s Network,” a non-profit organization that provides support and advocacy for families of homicide victims across the Kansas City metropolitan area. The organization has assisted with funeral expenses for nearly 400 victims over the past eight years, demonstrating the profound and ongoing commitment of families to support others facing similar tragedies.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the latest news regarding Joseph McNally’s murder?

Joseph McNally’s mother, Julie McNally Ferer, is speaking out four years after his unsolved murder in July 2021, hoping to generate new leads and find witnesses.

When and where did Joseph McNally’s murder occur?

Joseph McNally was fatally shot on July 30, 2021, in Phoenix, Arizona, in the area of 11400 North 28th Drive.

Is there a reward for information in Joseph McNally’s case?

Yes, a cash reward is available through the Silent Witness program for information that leads to a felony arrest in Joseph McNally’s murder case.

Are there other unsolved murder cases where mothers are seeking justice?

Yes, mothers are seeking justice in several other unsolved cases, including David Walker in Flint, Michigan (2005), Daylon Harris in Natchitoches, Louisiana, and Patrick Scott, Jr. in Oakland, California (2018), and Jasper Junious (2002). [cite: 10, 12, 17, 20, original prompt snippet]

What is the reward for information in Patrick Scott, Jr.’s murder case?

The FBI offers up to $20,000, and Oakland Crime Stoppers offers an additional $10,000, totaling $30,000, for information leading to an arrest in Patrick Scott, Jr.’s murder case.

Has Corey Laykovich’s murder been solved?

Yes, Corey Laykovich’s murder in Independence, Missouri, was solved. His killer, John Seger, pleaded guilty to voluntary manslaughter in 2016.

Summary of Unsolved Murder Cases Highlighted

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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.