In the late hours of a Saturday night in Yuma, Arizona, a house party filled with youthful energy took a tragic turn, ending the life of 20-year-old Ande Cruz Blackthunder. On May 13, 2023, what began as a social gathering on S. J Edward Drive devolved into chaos and violence when gunfire erupted. Blackthunder was one of seven people struck by the hail of more than 30 bullets that flew through the residence.
He was rushed to Yuma Regional Medical Center, but tragically succumbed to his injuries.
The shooting, which police later stated was not a random act, also claimed the life of 19-year-old Danny Garcia. Five other young men and teenagers, with ages ranging from 15 to 19, were also wounded in the melee. The homeowners were not present at the time of the incident but were said to have cooperated with the subsequent investigation. Investigators recovered several weapons from the scene, indicating the involvement of multiple shooters.
In the days that followed the deadly house party, law enforcement officials made a series of arrests in connection with the mass shooting. Three individuals were taken into custody and faced charges related to the incident. Abraham Colin and Jose Lopez were charged with felony first-degree murder and aggravated assault. A third suspect, Aden Arviso, was arrested on suspicion of false reporting and disorderly conduct with a weapon. The arrests brought a measure of progress in a case that left two young men dead and a community in mourning.
