x
Breaking News
More () »

MCSO arrests suspect for killing 15-year-old in Guadalupe

David Thomas, 23, allegedly admitted to firing several gunshots on Aug. 15 in a Guadalupe neighborhood. One of the shots allegedly killed a teenager.

TEMPE, Ariz. — Editor's Note: The video above is from an earlier broadcast.

Investigators have detained a suspect accused of fatally shooting a teenage boy in Guadalupe last month. 

David Thomas, 23, was arrested this week on suspicion of killing a 15-year-old boy on Aug. 15 near Calle Batoua and Calle Biehn, public records show.

Thomas told the Maricopa County Sheriff's Office he allegedly heard several gunshots that night coming from Avenida del Yaqui. Out of fear, Thomas allegedly returned fire toward where he heard the shots. 

One of the shots fired from Thomas' gun ended up killing the 15-year-old, court records show.

The victim, later identified as Elias Longoria, had just started his freshman year at Marcos De Niza High School when he was killed.

Two juveniles who were with the victim that night told MCSO they had been walking south on Avenida del Yaqui when they heard a gunshot in the neighborhood. The juveniles then started to run as they heard a series of more gunshots. 

Thomas was booked into jail on a single charge of second-degree murder.

RELATED: Group home where teen resident was shot and killed doesn't have required permit, Phoenix city officials say

RELATED: 'One of the strongest people I know': Vigil held for teen killed by suspected DUI driver in Queen Creek

Up to Speed

Catch up on the latest news and stories on our 12 News YouTube playlist here. 

More ways to get 12News 

On your phone: Download the 12News app for the latest local breaking news straight to your phone.  

On your streaming device: Download 12News+ to your streaming device  

The free 12News+ app from 12News lets users stream live events — including daily newscasts like "Today in AZ" and "12 News" and our daily lifestyle program, "Arizona Midday"—on Roku and Amazon Fire TV.  

12News+ showcases live video throughout the day for breaking news, local news, weather and even an occasional moment of Zen showcasing breathtaking sights from across Arizona. 

On social media: Find us on FacebookTwitterInstagram and YouTube.

Before You Leave, Check This Out