TUCSON, Ariz. — A confrontation between a young man and his sister’s boyfriend turned deadly earlier this month, leading to charges of second-degree murder against the boyfriend. According to police reports, the incident unfolded on the evening of November 7 in a residential area on Tucson’s south side.
The victim, 24-year-old Arturo Gastelum, suffered a gunshot wound after arriving at a home in the 4600 block of South Calle Jon. Authorities report that the shooting occurred following a domestic dispute between Gastelum’s sister and the suspect, Jerome Middleton III, 21. Gastelum had been informed about the altercation and drove to the residence to confront Middleton.
Witnesses, including Middleton’s parents who were present outside the home, reported that Gastelum entered the front yard demanding Middleton come out. In an attempt to break up the escalating situation, Middleton’s parents intervened but were unable to prevent the violence that ensued. A gunshot rang out, and soon after, Gastelum fled the scene in his vehicle while Middleton ran away on foot.
Shortly thereafter, Tucson police received reports about a vehicle driving erratically near South Campbell Avenue and East Irvington Road. When officers arrived, they found Gastelum unresponsive inside his vehicle. Despite life-saving measures, he was pronounced dead at the scene around 11:31 p.m. A handgun was discovered in Gastelum’s pocket during this attempt.
Authorities launched an investigation that included obtaining a search warrant for both Middleton’s parents’ residence and Gastelum’s vehicle. A stop-and-arrest notice was also issued for Middleton.
On the evening following the incident, Middleton and his parents approached Tucson Police Department’s main station, where he surrendered. According to the police complaint, Middleton admitted to shooting Gastelum. He claimed the confrontation escalated from text message exchanges prior to Gastelum’s arrival and stated he believed the victim was armed as he attempted to push past Middleton’s mother.
Middleton alleged he did not see a weapon but was aware that Gastelum often carried one. Fearing for his safety, he obtained his own gun from within the house and shot Gastelum once. Following this, he provided inconsistent accounts of his actions and disclosed to police that he disposed of the gun while fleeing the scene.
Now, Middleton faces serious charges in connection with the shooting that claimed Gastelum’s life. As the investigation continues, the community is left to grapple with the tragic turn of events that has sparked both outrage and mourning.
The case remains under investigation as authorities work holistically to piece together the details that led to this lethal confrontation. Further updates are expected in the coming days.