Phoenix, Arizona — A man responsible for a deadly shooting at a construction site in Phoenix has been sentenced to 45 years in prison. The incident, which occurred three years ago, resulted in the death of a construction worker and injured several others, authorities reported Friday.
Zachery Shropshire, armed with both a high-powered rifle and a .45 caliber handgun, opened fire on workers at an apartment complex on March 10, 2022. The Maricopa County Attorney’s Office confirmed that Shropshire emerged from his apartment and targeted the construction crew.
Prosecutors said Shropshire shot Alvaro Quezada in the leg, effectively trapping him on the ground before delivering multiple fatal shots. In total, seven people, including both workers and nearby residents, survived the attack, with one individual sustaining injuries while attempting to assist Quezada.
During the violent episode, Shropshire discharged approximately 24 rounds. Following the shooting, he fled the scene but crashed his vehicle into a parked car a mile away. Law enforcement later apprehended him hiding in an alley.
In October, a jury convicted Shropshire on multiple charges, including second-degree murder and aggravated assault, as well as counts of disorderly conduct and leaving the scene of an accident. Maricopa County Attorney Rachel Mitchell expressed her sentiments regarding the tragic event, stating that while nothing could undo the trauma inflicted on the victims and Quezada’s family, accountability for Shropshire’s actions was necessary.
The shooting incident had a profound impact on the community, highlighting the dangers that construction workers frequently face. Authorities have emphasized the importance of safety and the need for vigilance in neighborhoods where construction projects are underway.
Despite the lengthy prison sentence, families affected by the shooting continue to grapple with the emotional scars left in its wake. Mitchell’s remarks reflect an ongoing commitment to ensuring justice for victims of violent crime in Arizona.