By Gila Herald Staff
PERIDOT — A 20-year-old man was taken into custody Wednesday night following reports of gunfire in the New Moonbase Community.
According to the San Carlos Apache Police Department (SCAPD), officers responded to the area at approximately 9:29 p.m. on Wednesday, Aug. 12, after receiving reports of multiple gunshots.
Witnesses on the scene reported hearing between 15 and 20 shots fired and seeing several muzzle flashes in the neighborhood.
Upon arrival, officers located the suspect, identified as 20-year-old Julius Benavides, standing outside a residence holding a firearm. Officers issued verbal commands, and Benavides complied by dropping the weapon. He was arrested without further incident, and law enforcement recovered evidence related to the shooting at the scene.
Police confirmed that the incident was contained to the immediate area. No injuries were reported, and authorities stated there is no ongoing threat to the surrounding community.
Benavides was booked into custody on the following charges:
- Misconduct Involving Weapons
- Misuse of a Firearm
- Disorderly Conduct (Discharging a Weapon)
- Interfering with a Law Enforcement Officer
In a public statement, the San Carlos Apache Police Department expressed gratitude to community members who promptly reported the incident and assisted officers, reminding the public: “If you see something, say something.”
