Authorities have released the identities of three men who were killed in a shooting that investigators believe stemmed from a home invasion in south Phoenix on the evening of September 23, 2025. The tragic incident has left a community shaken and sparked an ongoing investigation as police work to piece together the series of events that led to the deadly encounter.

According to Sgt. Lorraine Fernandez, a spokesperson for the Phoenix Police Department, officers were dispatched around 9:00 p.m. to a residence near Southern Avenue and 24th Street following multiple reports of gunfire. When officers arrived, they were met with a chaotic and grisly scene inside the home — three men were found deceased from apparent gunshot wounds.

Authorities have identified the men as Steven Brooks, 23, believed to be a resident and the victim of the home invasion, and David Rashad, 40, and Davontae Fletcher, 20, who police believe were suspects attempting to break into the home. According to early reports, an exchange of gunfire occurred shortly after the suspects entered the property, though the exact sequence of events remains under investigation.

Police believe the shooting was not random and that those involved may have known each other in some capacity, though a clear motive has yet to be established. Investigators are working to determine whether the suspects intended to rob the home, retaliate against someone inside, or were motivated by another reason.

“From what we know at this point, this was a targeted incident and not a random act of violence against the neighborhood,” Sgt. Fernandez stated. “We are continuing to interview witnesses, collect evidence, and review surveillance footage to fully understand what happened.”

Neighbors in the typically quiet residential area described hearing multiple gunshots followed by sirens as police and emergency responders swarmed the scene. “It was terrifying — we heard five or six shots back-to-back,” said one nearby resident. “We didn’t know what was happening, but it was clear something serious had gone wrong.”

As detectives continue their work, they are also collaborating with the Maricopa County Medical Examiner’s Office to conduct autopsies and confirm the official causes of death. The investigation will focus on whether any additional suspects were involved, as police have not ruled out the possibility that others may have played a role in planning or executing the invasion.

The incident has reignited conversations in the community about gun violence and home safety, with local leaders calling for increased resources and outreach to prevent similar tragedies.

In a statement, Phoenix police extended their condolences to the families of those who lost their lives, while emphasizing their commitment to finding answers. “This is a deeply tragic situation that claimed three lives and left a community reeling,” Sgt. Fernandez said. “Our detectives are working tirelessly to bring clarity and justice to those impacted by this violence.”

Anyone with information about the incident is urged to contact the Phoenix Police Department or Silent Witness at 480-WITNESS. All tips can remain anonymous.