In a quiet West Phoenix neighborhood, the tranquility was shattered on the morning of May 1, 2025, when gunshots echoed from the home of 61-year-old Reginald Reggie Anderson. Neighbors near 101st and Oregon Avenues were startled by the sounds and promptly called 911 just before noon. When Phoenix police officers arrived at the residence, they discovered Reginald Anderson with at least one gunshot wound.
Tragically, his injuries were fatal, and he was pronounced deceased at the scene.
As the investigation unfolded, a heartbreaking narrative began to emerge. Witnesses at the scene identified the shooter as Reginald's own daughter, 33-year-old Reilan Anderson. Investigators learned that Reilan had driven from her home in Maricopa to her father's Phoenix residence that day. Following the shooting, she fled the scene. Law enforcement officials were able to track her to Maricopa where she was located and taken into custody. Despite witness accounts, Reilan Anderson denied any involvement in the fatal shooting of her father.
The profound loss and fractured family dynamics were laid bare during Reilan Anderson's initial court appearance. Reginald's wife of 20 years, Tanesha Anderson, who was also Reilan's stepmother, gave a harrowing account of the events. She told the court that Reilan had not only murdered her father in cold blood but had also hunted her through the house with the intent to harm her as well. Tanesha recounted her narrow escape, crediting the grace of God for her survival. She described her loss as the most unimaginable she has ever suffered at the hands of her stepdaughter.
During the court proceedings, it was revealed that Reilan Anderson had a history of mental health treatment and had experienced suicidal thoughts. Her attorney requested that these factors be taken into consideration during the setting of her bail. The prosecutor, however, argued that there was evidence of premeditation and that Reilan posed a significant danger to the community and was a flight risk. Ultimately, the judge set her bail at $1 million in cash. In addition to the first-degree murder charge for her father's death, Reilan Anderson also faces a charge of aggravated assault related to the threat against her stepmother. The investigation is ongoing, but police have stated they are not seeking any other suspects in connection with Reginald 'Reggie' Anderson's tragic death.
