In the quiet community of San Tan Valley, Arizona, the life of 32-year-old Curtis Fish was tragically cut short on the evening of Monday, May 9, 2016. His body was discovered alongside a road near Quail Run Lane and Skyline Drive, having been shot multiple times. The initial discovery sent ripples of concern through the otherwise peaceful area, leaving friends and family to grapple with the sudden and violent loss of a man known for his big heart and passion for life, particularly his love for Harley-Davidson motorcycles.
The investigation into the death of Curtis Fish quickly revealed that this was not a random act of violence. Detectives from the Pinal County Sheriff's Office soon identified two individuals connected to him: his 24-year-old ex-girlfriend, Danielle Kinyon, with whom he had a tumultuous relationship, and her former boyfriend, 34-year-old Chad Jenkins. It was determined that the victim and the suspects were known to one another, dispelling early fears of a random killer in the community. The days leading up to the fatal encounter were marked by escalating tension, primarily centered around a car that Fish had loaned to Kinyon and was attempting to retrieve.
Within days of the discovery of Fish's body, the investigation led to the apprehension of both suspects. Danielle Kinyon was arrested on Tuesday night, followed by the capture of Chad Jenkins on Wednesday. Jenkins was found in Mesa riding a stolen motorcycle, which he had allegedly spray-painted to alter its appearance in an attempt to evade authorities. Kinyon's role in the events was described by prosecutors as that of a catalyst, alleging she intentionally involved Jenkins in the dispute over the car, knowing it would lead to a confrontation. After the shooting, Kinyon and Jenkins fled the scene in separate vehicles. Kinyon initially gave conflicting accounts to the police, at one point claiming she was the shooter before recanting and stating that Jenkins had shot Fish.
The legal proceedings that followed brought a measure of closure to the case, though the full truth of what transpired on that fatal day may never be completely known. Chad Jenkins, identified as the shooter, pleaded guilty to manslaughter and was sentenced to 21 years in prison. Danielle Kinyon, who had initially been indicted on a first-degree murder charge, pleaded guilty to lesser charges of hindering prosecution and vehicle theft. Her plea agreement was, in part, due to her cooperation in testifying against Jenkins. She was sentenced to five years in prison for her role in the events that led to the death of Curtis Fish. The resolution of the court cases closed a painful chapter for the family and friends of a man remembered for his infectious grin and willingness to help anyone in need.
