In the fall of 2015, a dispute between rival 'tagging' crews in Phoenix, Arizona, culminated in the tragic death of 18-year-old Raul Ortega. On Monday, November 23, 2015, Ortega was discovered in the front yard of a residence near 4900 W. Verde Lane, suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. He was quickly transported to a local hospital but ultimately succumbed to his injuries.
The investigation into the shooting revealed a history of conflict between Ortega and another young man,
19-year-old Jasyel Perez. Witnesses at the scene identified Perez as the assailant, stating that he shot Ortega in the front yard before fleeing in a light-colored vehicle. The conflict between the two was reportedly rooted in their affiliation with competing graffiti crews.
Following the incident, authorities located and apprehended Jasyel Perez. During questioning, Perez admitted to shooting Ortega. He claimed that he acted out of fear due to threats that had been made by Ortega. Despite his claims of self-defense, Perez was arrested and subsequently charged with second-degree murder in connection with the death of Raul Ortega.
