Gilbert, Arizona – A weekend family gathering in Gilbert escalated into a life-threatening shooting after a visiting relative allegedly shot his stepsister’s teenage boyfriend in the neck following a series of disturbing interactions, according to police.
Gilbert police have arrested Rael Sanchez, 21, who is charged with attempted second-degree murder in connection with the shooting that occurred Saturday evening at a home in the 900 block of South Deerfield Lane.
What Police Say Happened
According to court documents reviewed by local media and statements from authorities, the incident unfolded shortly before 8 p.m. while a teenage girl, who lives at the home, had her 16-year-old boyfriend visiting. At the same time, Sanchez, described as a relative of one of the homeowners, was also present.
Police say Sanchez entered the girl’s bedroom where the couple was spending time and asked the boyfriend whether he had Sanchez’s phone number. When the boyfriend said no and offered to take the number instead, Sanchez reportedly laughed and left the room.
The couple later went outside toward a nearby basketball court behind the home. As they walked, the girl noticed Sanchez speaking with another family member and observed a handgun tucked into his waistband, according to police reports.
Escalating Behavior and Warning Signs
Investigators say Sanchez began behaving erratically and appeared to be slurring his words. He allegedly tried to provoke the boyfriend, making hostile remarks such as “you ain’t s—” and “you ain’t about s—.”
Concerned, the girl went back inside and told family members what was happening. She later told investigators that relatives dismissed the behavior, saying Sanchez was just “checking” the boyfriend.
When she returned outside, Sanchez was still interacting with the couple. Police documents state he was carrying a bag and repeatedly saying “take me to Asia.” The girl told investigators that her boyfriend appeared frightened by Sanchez’s behavior.
The Shooting Inside the Home
The couple attempted to go back inside the house, but Sanchez allegedly continued following and focusing on the boyfriend. As they walked indoors, the girl reported hearing a loud “pop” and then saw her boyfriend collapse to the floor.
Police say the teenager had been shot in the neck.
Sanchez allegedly fled the scene on foot and then drove away in his father’s pickup truck, authorities said.
Emergency Response and Victim Condition
Gilbert police officers responded to the home and found the victim suffering from serious injuries. He was transported to a nearby hospital in critical condition.
According to police and medical information cited in court records, the bullet damaged the victim’s spine. When the teen later regained consciousness, he reportedly could not feel his arms or legs, and medical staff told investigators he was likely to be permanently paralyzed if he survived the shooting.
Arrest and Charges
Authorities were unable to locate Sanchez Saturday night. He was found the following morning by Phoenix police officers, who reported seeing him elsewhere in the city.
After being detained, Sanchez was taken to a hospital for treatment of unspecified injuries. Once released, he was formally taken into custody by Gilbert police.
Sanchez has since been booked into the Maricopa County Jail on a $1 million cash-only bond.
Mental Health Concerns Raised
Family members told investigators that they believed Sanchez had been experiencing mental health issues leading up to the shooting. Police have not said whether those concerns played a role in the incident or whether Sanchez underwent a mental health evaluation following his arrest.
The case remains under investigation as detectives continue reviewing witness statements, forensic evidence, and the circumstances surrounding the shooting.
Community Impact and Ongoing Investigation
The incident has shocked residents in the quiet Gilbert neighborhood, particularly because it involved a family gathering and a teenage victim. Police have not released additional details about potential motives or whether drugs or alcohol were involved.
Anyone with additional information related to the incident is encouraged to contact the Gilbert Police Department as the investigation continues.
Share your thoughts or experiences related to community safety and warning signs of escalating behavior in the comments below.
