Crime
20-year-old Nicholas Rutledge arrested in shooting death of 53-year-old Maurice Stewart in Phoenix
A 20-year-old man has been taken into custody in connection with a fatal shooting that occurred early Saturday morning near 24th and Van Buren streets in Phoenix.
Phoenix police officers responded to reports of gunfire in a business parking lot around 1:45 a.m.
Upon arrival, they discovered a man, later identified as 53-year-old Maurice Stewart, suffering from gunshot wounds.
Stewart was transported to a hospital, where he was pronounced dead from his injuries.
During their investigation, authorities identified a suspect vehicle linked to the incident.
Officers located the vehicle in a nearby neighborhood and attempted to make contact with the suspect, 20-year-old Nicholas Rutledge.
Rutledge fled the scene on foot but was apprehended after a brief pursuit.
At this time, the events leading up to the shooting remain unclear, and the investigation is ongoing.
Anyone with information about this incident is encouraged to contact the Phoenix Police Department or Silent Witness at 480-WITNESS (480-948-6377).
Lindley Middle School, located at 50 Veterans Memorial Highway, was placed on lockdown Wednesday afternoon following a shooting incident on campus, authorities confirmed.
The swift response ensured the safety of students and staff, and the campus has since been thoroughly cleared and deemed secure.
Officer S.A. Barner of the Cobb County Police Department stated:
“In conjunction with the Cobb County School Police, we responded to an incident at Lindley Middle School following a report of a person shot.”
The shooting resulted in one confirmed victim, identified as a juvenile. Details regarding their identity or the severity of their injuries have not been disclosed out of respect for the victim’s family and to protect the integrity of the investigation.
“We can confirm that the victim is a juvenile. Out of respect for their family and the ongoing investigation, we are unable to share further details about their condition or confirm any other specifics,” added Officer Barner.
Upon receiving reports of the incident, the Cobb County Police Department, in collaboration with the Cobb County School Police, secured the campus and initiated a lockdown to ensure the safety of all students and staff.
Parents were directed to reunite with their children at Leland United Methodist Church at 81 Veterans Memorial Highway, where arrangements were made for an orderly and safe process.
Police and school officials worked closely to manage the situation, and a visible law enforcement presence remains on-site as the investigation continues.
Authorities have not yet released information regarding the circumstances leading to the shooting or the identity of any potential suspects. Law enforcement is actively gathering evidence and interviewing witnesses to determine the events that transpired.
Officer Barner expressed gratitude to the community for their cooperation:
“We are working closely with the Cobb County School Police and will provide updates as more information becomes available. Thank you for your understanding, cooperation, and patience during this time.”
The incident has understandably caused concern among parents and the wider community. The Cobb County School District and local law enforcement are committed to maintaining open lines of communication and ensuring the ongoing safety of students and staff.
Counseling and support services will be made available to students, staff, and families affected by this incident. Authorities have urged anyone with information regarding the shooting to come forward to assist in the investigation.
The Cobb County Police Department and the Cobb County School Police will continue their collaborative efforts to ensure a thorough investigation. Updates on the situation will be shared with the public as they become available.
This tragic event serves as a sobering reminder of the importance of community vigilance and the shared responsibility for ensuring school safety.