A 15-year-old accused in the fatal shooting at Phoenix’s Desert Sky Mall will face prosecution in adult court, marking the next stage in a case that renewed concerns about gun violence involving juveniles in public spaces.
The Maricopa County Attorney’s Office announced that Guillermo Guzman has been indicted on one count of second-degree murder, four counts of aggravated assault, and one count of disorderly conduct. Prosecutors allege the charges stem from the June 2 shooting that killed 17-year-old Kevin Zamora and wounded a 16-year-old victim.
Phoenix police responded to the indoor shopping mall near 75th Avenue and Thomas Road around 8:20 p.m., where officers found the two victims suffering from gunshot wounds. Investigators allege Guzman drew a handgun and fired after a verbal altercation with a group of people inside the mall.
Authorities identified Guzman through surveillance footage and other investigative methods before arresting him at his home several days later without incident. His appearance bond has been set at $1 million.
Arizona law allows certain juveniles accused of serious violent felonies to be prosecuted as adults, exposing them to significantly harsher penalties than those available in the juvenile justice system if they are convicted. The case is expected to proceed through Maricopa County Superior Court.
