Esteban Valenzuela Fatally Shot in Drug-Related Armed Robbery, Reports Confirm

The Nov. 22 murder of 16-year-old Esteban Valenzuela in Maricopa Meadows is linked to an armed robbery, with indications of involvement in drug trafficking, according to recently released court documents from Pinal County Superior Court.

Fifteen-year-old Isaiah Bandin has been charged with first-degree murder and armed robbery related to Valenzuela’s death. Initial findings suggest a possible familial connection between the two boys.

This morning, Bandin appeared in Pinal County Superior Court following a juvenile court recommendation to plead not guilty to the serious felony charges. Previously, he had attended an initial appearance before Juvenile Judge Roger Valdez on Nov. 28.

Documents indicate that during the robbery attempt, Bandin allegedly threatened another teenager, Sergio Michael Munoz, 16, while armed. Munoz was reportedly present during the incident when the firearm discharged.

As of now, Bandin remains incarcerated at the Pinal County Youth Justice Detention Center, where he is held on a cash bond set at $1 million. He was formally indicted on these charges on Dec. 9.

On the night of the incident, evidence such as vape boxes littered the area on Dancer Lane, suggesting a drug deal had possibly turned violent. Investigators were active on the ground, seeking items associated with vaping and drug transactions.

The search warrant underscores that authorities are also investigating potential financial aspects related to drug trafficking, including efforts to launder illicit money tied to drug proceeds. This information has surfaced amidst broader concerns regarding youth involvement in criminal activities.

Bandin was apprehended along with a 15-year-old girl, reportedly his girlfriend, during a SWAT-assisted operation following the issuance of the search warrant. The operation included searching a Roth Drive residence tied to his family, some of whom have criminal histories.

Police located Bandin on social media, where he indicated residency in Ak-Chin Village. The Maricopa Police Department has also arrested another 16-year-old boy in connection with the murder case, although details about his charges remain undisclosed.

Emergency responders arrived at the scene close to 7:15 p.m. on Nov. 22, finding Valenzuela suffering from gunshot wounds. Despite immediate transport to a hospital, he succumbed to his injuries.

Authorities reported that the tragic event appeared to involve a group of young people, highlighting an alarming trend within the community.

Social media posts related to Bandin show him engaging in illegal activities, including alcohol and cannabis use. Support for him has emerged online, with local teens disseminating hashtags advocating for his release.

Now, with charges pursued in Pinal County Superior Court, Bandin is being treated as an adult. If convicted, he could face life imprisonment, though the death penalty is off the table due to his age.

A spokesperson from the Maricopa Police Department indicated that further investigations are ongoing and that additional arrests may be forthcoming.

Elias Weiss contributed to this report.