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WOMAN DIES AT HOSPITAL

Police arrest man in fatal Chandler shooting

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Friday, at about 9:25 a.m., Chandler Police were dispatched to a call for service of shots fired in the area of Arizona Avenue and Fairview St. in Chandler and discovered a gunshot victim, according to a news release.

After further investigation, the suspect was identified as 41-year-old James A. Taylor, police said.  He was eventually located and was booked into jail on one count of first-degree murder, a class 1 felony; possession of a weapon by a prohibited possessor, a class 4 felony.

Upon arrival, officers observed a female in her 30’s, and later identified as Jessica Luz with a several gunshot wounds, the release said. Medical aid was provided.

Luz was transported to a local hospital where she passed away from her injuries.

The investigation determined Luz was an transient known to frequent the area. Taylor was upset because his dogs were barking at Luz in the alley, police said. Through investigation, detectives determined the suspect had yelled at Luz to get out of the alley and Luz refused to leave.

Taylor retrieved a firearm from his residence, returned to the alley and again told Luz to leave threatening to shoot her. When she refused, Taylor shot Luz multiple times.

After the victim was shot, witnesses described the suspect to be a white m an wearing glasses with a vertical-black-and-white striped shirt and gray hoodie. A man matching the description was observed by police walking away from the area where the victim was located and entering the backyard of a nearby residence.

After negotiations were made, the suspect, Taylor,  surrendered and was taken into custody without further incident. In a post-Miranda rights interview, Taylor admitted to shooting Luz, police said.