Glendale, Arizona – In a significant breakthrough, Glendale police have apprehended a suspect in the case of a family man who tragically lost his life during a home invasion back in 2016. Joseph Keller was taken into custody on April 25, just a few days after the eighth anniversary of Jose Sanchez’s untimely death at his family’s residence near 57th Avenue and Camelback Road.
The incident took place on April 22, 2016, when a group of intruders forcefully entered the family’s home, resulting in Sanchez sustaining multiple gunshot wounds during the ordeal. Following a tip received by authorities a few days after the crime, it was discovered that the vehicle used by the burglars had ties to Keller through a previous relationship. Detectives found that Keller had been using this vehicle around the time of the homicide.
Further investigation revealed Keller’s fingerprints at the victim’s residence, prompting suspicions of his involvement. Sanchez’s family informed authorities that they had no prior connection to Keller, raising questions about his fingerprints being present in their home. Public records indicate that Keller was released from an Arizona prison in April 2023 after serving time for fraud and organized retail theft. He now faces charges of murder and armed robbery in connection with the 2016 incident.
Sanchez’s family had described him as a devoted father and grandfather who had worked hard to provide for his family, even attending truck driving school to secure a better future for his loved ones. The arrest of Keller brings a sense of closure to the family after years of uncertainty and fear.
Glendale is part of the Phoenix Metropolitan Area, commonly referred to as “The Valley,” which encompasses various major cities beyond Phoenix such as Mesa, Chandler, Scottsdale, and others. The Valley boasts a combined population of over 4.8 million people, making it one of the largest metropolitan areas in the United States. Maricopa County, where Glendale is located, stands as the fourth most populous county in the nation, housing over 4.4 million residents according to the latest census data.
With an expansive park system and significant Native American heritage, Maricopa County offers a diverse and culturally rich environment for its residents. The county’s seat in Phoenix serves as the state capital and is renowned for its vibrant community and amenities. The naming of the county after the Maricopa Native American Tribe underscores the region’s deep historical roots and significance.