Phoenix Police Apprehend Suspects at Walmart Following Bizarre Cactus Shooting

PHOENIX — Police apprehended suspects following a pursuit that began in the West Valley on Monday, linked to a shooting incident at Piestewa Peak.

A park ranger reported to 12News that two individuals were shooting at saguaros before fleeing the area. The ranger provided officers with a license plate number, which led to a pivotal discovery.

The vehicle was found to be stolen, and a police helicopter tracked it until the suspects reached a Walmart parking lot near 67th and Peoria avenues. In a swift move, the suspects exited the vehicle and entered the store, where police eventually detained them.

This story is still developing, and additional information will follow as it becomes available.

Known locally as “The Valley,” the Phoenix Metropolitan Area stands as the largest metropolitan region in the Southwest. It includes various major cities aside from Phoenix, such as Mesa, Chandler, Scottsdale, Tempe, and Glendale.

According to the 2020 United States Census, the Valley’s combined population is approximately 4,845,832, making it the 11th largest metropolitan area in the U.S.

Maricopa County, home to Phoenix, is the fourth largest county in the U.S. by population, boasting 4,485,414 residents as of the 2020 Census. Covering around 9,224 square miles, it encompasses roughly 63% of Arizona’s population.

The county is notable for its extensive park system, featuring around 120,000 acres of open space, including trails, nature centers, and campgrounds.

Maricopa County, named after the Maricopa Native American Tribe, is a critical hub in Arizona, with Phoenix serving as both its county seat and state capital. This metropolitan landscape continues to grow, reflecting the dynamic nature of the area.