On October 6, 2024, at approximately 3:20 p.m., 51-year-old Guy Taylor, affectionately known as "Daffy Jaybyrd," was fatally shot inside the Victorville Galleria mall in Victorville, California. Taylor owned and operated an electronics repair store within the mall, where he was well-regarded for his ability to fix a wide range of devices and his dedication to customer service.
His daughter, Mimi Taylor, noted that her father was "literally loved in the whole community" and was passionate about helping his customers.
The incident occurred following a physical altercation between Taylor and 34-year-old Harold Phillips Jr. Phillips allegedly drew a firearm during the confrontation and shot Taylor, who was pronounced dead at the scene despite deputies' attempts at life-saving measures. Phillips fled the scene before law enforcement arrived.
In the weeks following the shooting, investigators identified Phillips as the primary suspect and issued a warrant for his arrest. On October 22, 2024, the U.S. Marshals Service located and apprehended Phillips in San Jose, California. He was arrested without incident and subsequently booked into the Santa Clara County Jail before being transferred to the West Valley Detention Center, where he remains in custody without bail.
Phillips has been charged with murder and has pleaded not guilty. The investigation into the circumstances leading up to the shooting is ongoing, and authorities have urged anyone with additional information to contact the San Bernardino County Sheriff's Department.
In the aftermath of Taylor's death, the community has expressed deep sorrow and support for his family. A makeshift memorial filled with candles was established near the mall's entrance to honor his memory. Additionally, a GoFundMe page was created to assist the family with funeral expenses, reflecting the high regard in which Taylor was held by those who knew him.
