Three Suspects Arrested in Phoenix Murder Case
Authorities have taken three individuals into custody regarding the killing of 20-year-old Damarion Goins.
Updated on Sept. 18, 2026 in Violence
Police in Phoenix have arrested three suspects following the death of 20-year-old Damarion Goins, whose body was discovered in a backyard. The arrests follow an investigation into an armed robbery and a reports of shots fired in the area.
Why it matters
The apprehension of these three suspects marks a significant development in a violent crime case that rattled the local neighborhood. Authorities continue to process evidence recovered during the investigation to build their case.
Joshua Jones and a 17-year-old suspect are charged with first-degree murder and armed robbery, while Terell Barnes faces charges of first-degree murder and aggravated armed robbery. Police recovered evidence items suspected to have been used in the crimes.
The players
Damarion Goins
He was the 20-year-old victim found dead in a backyard following a reported shooting.
Joshua Jones
He is an 18-year-old suspect who was taken into custody on charges of first-degree murder and armed robbery.
Terell Barnes
He is a 19-year-old suspect facing charges of first-degree murder and aggravated armed robbery.
The details
Officers initially responded to a shots-fired call near Broadway Road and 19th Street, where they found a vehicle surrounded by shell casings. Subsequent investigations into a reported armed robbery led detectives to identify and apprehend the three suspects.
Timeline
Sept. 12, 2026, 10 p.m.: Officers responded to reports of shots fired.
Sept. 13, 2026, 2 a.m.: The victim, Damarion Goins, was found dead in a backyard.
Sept. 15, 2026: Joshua Jones and a 17-year-old suspect were taken into custody.
Sept. 16, 2026: Terell Barnes was taken into custody.
Legal Context
This case follows the standard procedural framework established by the Phoenix Police Department's homicide investigation protocols. The quick apprehension of suspects mirrors recent patterns in how the department clears violent crime cases through integrated field investigations.
Residents in the area near Broadway Road and 19th Street may notice continued police presence as investigators finalize evidence collection. The arrests offer some resolution to the community concerns sparked by the initial shots-fired call.
The takeaway
Communities are often alerted to dangers through prompt reporting of suspicious activity like shots fired in residential zones. Cooperating with law enforcement remains the most effective way for citizens to assist in resolving violent crimes in their neighborhoods.
Further reading
For more information on ongoing public safety reports, visit the Violence section.
