PHOENIX — An 18-year-old from south Phoenix has been formally indicted on multiple charges, including second-degree murder, after allegedly shooting and killing his father and injuring his mother during a violent episode at a family gathering last month.
The Maricopa County Attorney’s Office announced Tuesday that Victor Donovan Morales is facing charges of second-degree murder, aggravated assault, disorderly conduct, and weapons misconduct in connection with the June 24 shooting.
Family party turns deadly in early morning hours
The incident occurred in the early morning hours near Seventh Street and Dobbins Road. According to police, officers responded to reports of gunfire around 2:20 a.m. and arrived to find two people suffering from gunshot wounds.
The male victim, later identified as Victor Morales Lubvio, had sustained multiple gunshot wounds. A woman, identified as Marlen Jimenez Guadarrama, had been shot in the arm. Both victims were transported to a hospital, where Lubvio later died from his injuries. Guadarrama survived and was treated for her wounds.
Investigators determined that only three people — Morales and his parents — were inside the home at the time of the shooting.
Rifle and evidence link teen to the shooting
During a search of the property, officers discovered a rifle in the backyard that was linked to Morales. A spent shell casing matching the weapon’s caliber was found inside the home, near where Lubvio was shot, according to investigators.
Following the incident, Morales left the scene but later turned himself in to authorities on June 28. Phoenix police said he cooperated with officers upon his surrender.
Legal proceedings and upcoming trial
Morales remains in custody on a $1 million secured bond. Prosecutors say the charges reflect the seriousness of the incident and the danger posed to both victims.
He is scheduled to stand trial in November. No motive has been released publicly, and it remains unclear what led up to the deadly confrontation.
As the investigation continues, authorities say they are reviewing evidence and witness statements to build a fuller picture of the events that unfolded that night.
