In May of 2020, a Phoenix woman's life was tragically cut short in an act of domestic violence. Cristina Palmares, a 30-year-old female, was shot and killed by her husband, Estevanico Palmares, on May 18, 2020. The fatal shooting also claimed the life of their 35-year-old male roommate. The incident occurred at their residence near the intersection of I-10 and 48th Street.
Authorities were alerted to the situation after gunshots were heard earlier in the day, leading them to perform a
welfare check at the home. Upon arrival, officers discovered the bodies of Cristina Palmares and her roommate. The investigation that followed revealed a documented history of domestic violence between Cristina and her husband. In a tragic turn of events, the handgun used in the murders had been purchased by Cristina just two days prior to her death.
Estevanico Palmares, who was 40 years old at the time, was arrested and charged with the murders. As a convicted felon, he was legally prohibited from possessing a firearm. A jury found him guilty on two counts of second-degree murder. He also received a concurrent sentence for a single count of misconduct involving weapons. Ultimately, a judge sentenced Estevanico Palmares to 58 years in prison for his crimes. During the sentencing, Cristina's sister delivered a powerful statement, expressing the family's loss and the need for a lengthy sentence to prevent him from harming anyone else.
