Tucson Shooting Suspect Set for May Trial
David French faces 29 felony charges following a 2026 downtown shooting that injured nine people.
Updated on Oct. 19, 2026 in Violence
A judge has set the trial date for David French for May 3, 2027, in connection with a downtown Tucson shooting. French is currently being held without bond after pleading not guilty to 29 felony charges.
Why it matters
The legal proceedings stem from a shooting near Congress Street and 6th Avenue that left nine people injured. The case is now moving toward a trial after an indictment that followed the 2026 incident.
The indictment includes two counts of attempted second-degree murder, 15 counts of aggravated assault, and 10 counts of endangerment. David French remains held without bond while awaiting his status conference.
The players
David French
He is a 21-year-old suspect charged with 29 felonies following a mass shooting in downtown Tucson.
The details
The shooting occurred at 2 a.m. on July 19, 2026, when the suspect allegedly opened fire following an argument in the downtown area. French, who was on probation at the time of the incident, faces a trial set for May 3, 2027.
Timeline
July 19, 2026: The mass shooting occurred near Congress Street and 6th Avenue.
Aug. 7, 2026: David French entered a not guilty plea.
Aug. 11, 2026: A judge ordered French held without bond.
March 29, 2027: A status conference is scheduled for the defendant.
May 3, 2027: The criminal trial is set to begin.
Legal Context
This case follows a pattern of high-profile gun violence cases in the Tucson area that test the local judicial system. It serves as a reminder of how the city's courts navigate public mass-casualty events.
The legal proceedings are centered on an incident that occurred in a busy downtown district, drawing significant attention to security in the Congress Street and 6th Avenue area. Residents are advised to monitor court updates for potential traffic or security impacts during the trial dates.
The takeaway
The upcoming trial marks a critical phase in the resolution of this mass-injury case for the Tucson community. Residents should continue to follow official updates regarding public safety and the ongoing judicial process.
What happens next
A status conference for David French is scheduled for March 29, 2027, followed by the commencement of the trial on May 3, 2027.
Further reading
For more information on local safety, visit our Tucson Violence coverage.
