Dad with Shotgun Threatens Son, Calls Police to Confess

A man from Tortosa is facing serious legal issues after allegedly threatening his son with a shotgun. Mario R. Cortez, 41, was arrested on two felony weapons charges by the Maricopa Police Department.

On Wednesday, Cortez called 9-1-1 from his home on North Conquistador Drive, claiming that his juvenile son had threatened him and that gunfire was heard from within. However, the son’s account of the incident painted a different picture. According to a police report, the two had been arguing in the car, during which Cortez reportedly threatened his son with a firearm upon their arrival at home.

When they reached their residence, the son jumped over a wall into the backyard, fearing for his safety. He informed his mother that Cortez intended to shoot him with a shotgun. Meanwhile, Cortez was seen banging on the front door, heightening the tension in the situation.

Investigating officers reviewed home surveillance footage, which contradicted Cortez’s claims. The video recorded him retrieving a shotgun from the trunk of his car and approaching the house in search of his son. Initially, Cortez denied possessing a weapon, but later admitted to having the shotgun and contemplating its use against his son. He also alleged that his son fired a warning shot at a brick wall, despite the child not possessing a gun.

Public records indicate that Cortez, a convicted felon, had his rights restored in July 2023 following a criminal case in Maricopa County in 2016. However, police stated there are no records supporting his claim of restored rights.

Currently, Cortez is being held in the Pinal County jail, facing potential sentencing of over 20 years if convicted on these latest charges.