Maricopa Police Chief Urges Calm Amid Surge of Gun Violence

MARICOPA, Ariz. — In response to a troubling rise in gun violence, Maricopa Police Chief Mark Goodman is urging the community to embrace civility. His comments follow a series of alarming shootings that have affected the Pinal County area.

Goodman articulated his concerns in an editorial published Friday, highlighting that these violent acts are “not random.” One particularly serious shooting has led to permanent injuries for a victim, altering their life significantly.

The latest incident occurred Thursday night in a neighborhood, leaving one individual hospitalized, according to reports from PinalCentral.

As a long-time resident, Goodman expressed his sadness over the violence, emphasizing that the Maricopa community should resolve conflicts without resorting to aggression. He believes the city, which has grown to approximately 73,000 residents in recent years, is capable of fostering a more peaceful environment.

“Let’s stand together and choose civility over violence,” Goodman urged, calling on community members to protect one another and end the cycle of shootings.