PHOENIX — A Maricopa County grand jury has indicted J. John Alderman, 56, on charges of first-degree murder, attempted first-degree murder, and animal cruelty following a shooting outside a Gilbert motel earlier this month.
Authorities said the incident happened on August 12 at a motel near Country Club Drive and Guadalupe Road. According to investigators, Rodney Brewer, his wife Jessica Brewer, and their dog had just pulled their SUV into a parking spot in front of Alderman’s room when shots were fired.
Jessica Brewer was killed in the shooting. The couple’s dog was also struck but survived. Rodney Brewer was not physically harmed.
Charges and next steps
The indictment charges Alderman with:
First-Degree Murder (Class 1 Felony)
Attempted First-Degree Murder (Class 1 Felony)
Cruelty to Animals (Class 1 Misdemeanor)
Alderman is scheduled to stand trial in April 2026.
Authorities noted that criminal charges are accusations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.
