Armed suspect dead after domestic dispute ends in police shooting in Mesa

MESA, AZ (3TV/CBS 5) — The Mesa Police Department says a 42-year-old man has died in a police shooting that started as a domestic violence call.

Mesa police received a domestic violence call around 8:40 p.m. Sunday from a woman about her ex-boyfriend, later identified as Joel Castaneda. The two were in an argument after Castaneda reportedly broke into her home. When officers arrived, the woman said the Castaneda had already left and likely went to a friend’s house on 8th Ave and Hobson, near Southern Avenue and Horne.

Police went to the friend’s house and asked the couple inside if they had seen Castaneda. They said were “unsure he was inside” but that he stayed there occasionally. The couple permitted authorities to go inside the bedroom where Castaneda usually stays. Police said Castaneda immediately showed a gun and started firing at officers. One officer returned fire and struck Castaneda. The officers and the homeowner retreated from the bedroom, and Mesa SWAT units were called minutes later for what turned into a standoff.

SWAT officers later found Castaneda dead inside the home. No officers were injured. The investigation is ongoing as officers and witnesses still need to be interviewed. Police say they will provide updates as soon as they learn more.

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