On New Year's Day in 2019, a dispute that began inside a Phoenix nightclub tragically escalated, ending the life of 28-year-old German Rico. Rico, a Hispanic male, was at a club near 51st Avenue and McDowell Road in the early hours of January 1st. While inside, he was involved in an altercation with another man, identified as 22-year-old Luis Eduardo Ambriz.
The argument between the two men moved from inside the establishment to the parking lot, where they had agreed to a physical fight
to settle their differences. Surveillance footage from the area captured the ensuing confrontation, which involved several individuals. During the physical altercation, Ambriz reportedly broke away from the fight.
After separating himself from the brawl, Ambriz went to a vehicle and retrieved a handgun. He then shot Rico before fleeing the scene. Emergency services were called, and Rico was transported to a local hospital, but he ultimately succumbed to his injuries and was pronounced dead.
Initially, Phoenix police sought help from the public to identify any suspects. Their investigation eventually led them to Luis Eduardo Ambriz. On March 20, 2019, Phoenix police arrested Ambriz in connection with the fatal shooting. He was subsequently charged with first-degree murder and was held on a $1,000,000 bond.
