West Valley Family Sees Hope for Justice After Breakthrough in 8-Month-Old Homicide Case

Phoenix police made a significant breakthrough in a homicide case from last May by arresting a suspect linked to the shooting of Paul Lopez, Jr. The event transpired on May 5, 2024, at a bus stop located at 51st Avenue and Indian School Road.

Lopez, 37, was engaged in an argument with two individuals while waiting for his bus. According to police reports, one of these individuals shot him before fleeing the scene, leaving him critically wounded on the street.

Tragically, this incident occurred just days prior to Lopez and his wife Veronica’s wedding anniversary. “He just loved me for me and I loved that about him,” Veronica expressed, reflecting on their bond during such a painful time. Lopez succumbed to his injuries in the hospital shortly after.

It wasn’t until nearly eight months later that Phoenix police apprehended 25-year-old Raymond French. French was arrested at Chandler Regional Medical Center after receiving treatment for injuries from an unrelated incident on the Gila River Reservation.

“He’s a coward for shooting him from behind multiple times,” commented Altamirano, who is now focused on seeking justice for her late husband. Describing Lopez as a dedicated family man, she stated, “He’s the life of the party. He would bring everybody joy and happiness, and he’s not here no more.”

Veronica has committed to attending every court hearing related to French’s case. “I will be there to make sure he sees my face every day,” she vowed.

The successful arrest involved cooperation between multiple local agencies and the FBI, underscoring the collaborative effort in the pursuit of justice for Lopez’s family.