Tempe, Arizona, December 2, 2025
A tragic shooting occurred at a Little Caesars pizza shop in Tempe, Arizona, resulting in the deaths of two employees. The suspect, 27-year-old Benjaman Visser Jr., was arrested at the scene. The incident has raised concerns about public safety in the community, especially as it coincided with another shooting in the area on the same day. The investigation into the motive is ongoing, and the community has expressed solidarity with the victims’ families.
Tempe, Arizona: Fatal Shooting at Little Caesars Pizza Shop
Tempe, Arizona – A tragic incident occurred on Monday morning, December 1, 2025, at a Little Caesars pizza shop located near the intersection of Rural and Guadalupe roads. Two employees were fatally shot, and the suspect, identified as 27-year-old Benjaman Visser Jr., was arrested at the scene.
Details of the Incident
At approximately 9 a.m., Tempe police responded to reports of gunfire at the Little Caesars pizzeria. Upon arrival, officers found two victims—32-year-old Shaquille Simmons and 21-year-old Mary Visser—both employees of the establishment. They were transported to a nearby hospital in critical condition but later succumbed to their injuries. The suspect, Benjaman Visser Jr., was found at the scene with a firearm in his possession and was promptly detained. Investigators revealed that Benjaman and Mary were married. The motive behind the shooting remains under investigation.
Community Response
The Tempe Police Department expressed condolences to the victims’ families and the Little Caesars staff. They commended the swift and coordinated response of the officers, which led to the immediate arrest of the suspect and prevented further harm.
Background Information
Tempe, a city in the Phoenix metropolitan area, has experienced a series of violent incidents in recent days. On the same morning as the Little Caesars shooting, another fatal shooting occurred at the Tempe Marketplace, where a man was killed during an online transaction. These incidents have raised concerns about public safety in the community.
Investigation and Public Safety Measures
Authorities are actively investigating both shootings to determine the circumstances and motives involved. The Tempe Police Department urges residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to ensure the safety of the community.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What happened at the Little Caesars pizza shop in Tempe?
On December 1, 2025, two employees were fatally shot at a Little Caesars pizza shop near Rural and Guadalupe roads. The suspect, Benjaman Visser Jr., was arrested at the scene.
Who were the victims of the shooting?
The victims were 32-year-old Shaquille Simmons and 21-year-old Mary Visser, both employees of the Little Caesars pizzeria.
What is known about the suspect?
The suspect, 27-year-old Benjaman Visser Jr., was found at the scene with a firearm and was arrested. Investigators revealed that he was married to one of the victims, Mary Visser.
Were there any other shootings in Tempe on the same day?
Yes, on the same morning, another fatal shooting occurred at the Tempe Marketplace, where a man was killed during an online transaction.
What is being done to ensure public safety in Tempe?
The Tempe Police Department is actively investigating both shootings and urges residents to report any suspicious activities to maintain community safety.
Key Features of the Incident
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Little Caesars pizza shop near Rural and Guadalupe roads, Tempe, Arizona |
| Date and Time | December 1, 2025, around 9 a.m. |
| Victims | 32-year-old Shaquille Simmons and 21-year-old Mary Visser |
| Suspect | 27-year-old Benjaman Visser Jr., arrested at the scene |
| Investigation Status | Ongoing; motive under investigation |
| Community Response | Tempe Police Department expressed condolences and commended officers’ swift response |
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