PHOENIX, Ariz. – A devastating incident unfolded on Sunday evening, January 7, 2025, at a quiet apartment complex in Phoenix, leaving a couple dead and their toddler critically injured. Phoenix police have confirmed that 38-year-old Andrew Corona and his wife, 35-year-old Ashlee Corona, were killed in an apparent murder-suicide. Their child, who sustained a gunshot wound, is currently in stable but critical condition at a nearby hospital.
The tragedy occurred at an apartment complex near 99th Avenue and Indian School Road, where the family had been living for several years. According to Sgt. Phil Krynsky, a spokesperson for the Phoenix Police Department, officers were dispatched to the scene following multiple 911 calls from neighbors who reported hearing a heated argument inside the apartment, followed by gunshots.
When officers arrived around 8:30 p.m., they found a chilling scene. Both Andrew and Ashlee were deceased, and their young child had sustained life-threatening injuries. The toddler was immediately transported to a local hospital by emergency medical services. Police believe the shooting was a domestic incident that culminated in Andrew fatally shooting his wife and child before turning the gun on himself.
A Quiet Neighborhood Shaken by Violence
The apartment complex near 99th Avenue and Indian School Road is a normally quiet community, making the incident even more shocking for its residents. Neighbors described the Coronas as a seemingly ordinary family, though some noted that arguments between the couple had occasionally been overheard in the past.
“I can’t believe this happened so close to home,” said Maria Torres, a neighbor who lives a few doors down from the Coronas. “I always saw their little boy playing outside. He was such a happy, energetic kid. This is just heartbreaking.”
Others in the community echoed similar sentiments, describing the neighborhood as peaceful and family-oriented. The heavy police presence and flashing lights of emergency vehicles were a stark contrast to the typical calm atmosphere of the area.
Timeline of Events
According to preliminary reports from the Phoenix Police Department, the following timeline of events has been established:
- 8:15 p.m.: Multiple neighbors reported hearing a loud argument coming from the Coronas’ apartment.
- 8:20 p.m.: Gunshots rang out, prompting concerned neighbors to call 911. Some neighbors reported hearing at least three distinct gunshots.
- 8:30 p.m.: Officers arrived on the scene and forced entry into the apartment after receiving no response at the door. Inside, they discovered Andrew and Ashlee deceased and their child gravely injured.
- 8:40 p.m.: Emergency medical personnel transported the toddler to a nearby hospital for immediate treatment.
The Victims: Andrew and Ashlee Corona
Andrew and Ashlee Corona had been married for over a decade and were well-known in their community. Andrew worked in the warehouse sector, while Ashlee was employed at a local retail store. Those who knew the couple described them as hardworking and devoted parents, though there were signs of tension in their relationship.
“They seemed like a normal couple,” said John Rivera, a coworker of Andrew’s. “Andrew was a quiet guy, but he loved talking about his son. This is just unimaginable.”
Ashlee’s colleagues at the retail store expressed shock at the news, remembering her as a kind-hearted individual who always had a smile for everyone.
“She adored her child,” said Jessica Martinez, one of Ashlee’s coworkers. “She would always share pictures of him and talk about how much she loved being a mom.”
The Toddler’s Condition
The Coronas’ child, whose identity has not been released due to privacy concerns, is currently in stable but critical condition. Doctors have reported that the injuries, while severe, are not believed to be life-threatening. However, the road to recovery is expected to be long and challenging.
The Phoenix Children’s Hospital has been providing updates on the child’s condition and expressed gratitude for the outpouring of support from the community. “We are doing everything in our power to ensure the best possible outcome for this young patient,” a hospital representative said.
Community Reactions and Mourning
The tragedy has left the Phoenix community reeling. A candlelight vigil has been organized by local residents to honor the lives of Andrew and Ashlee and to pray for the recovery of their child. The vigil is scheduled to take place outside the apartment complex on Tuesday evening at 7:00 p.m..
Social media platforms have been flooded with messages of condolences and support for the surviving child. A family friend has also started a GoFundMe campaign to assist with medical expenses and to provide support for the child’s future. As of now, the campaign has raised over $15,000, surpassing its initial goal of $10,000.
“This is a tragedy no family should ever have to endure,” wrote Jennifer Ramos, the organizer of the fundraiser. “We hope to come together as a community to support this child and ensure they have a chance at a brighter future.”
Experts Weigh In on Domestic Violence and Mental Health
While the details of the Coronas’ relationship remain under investigation, experts on domestic violence and mental health have emphasized the importance of recognizing warning signs in relationships.
Dr. Lisa Hampton, a psychologist specializing in domestic violence, explained that incidents like this often stem from a combination of unaddressed mental health issues and unresolved conflicts within the relationship.
“Tragic events like these highlight the urgent need for accessible mental health resources and support systems,” Dr. Hampton said. “It’s crucial for individuals in troubled relationships to seek help before conflicts escalate.”
What’s Next? The Investigation Continues
The Phoenix Police Department has launched a comprehensive investigation into the circumstances surrounding the murder-suicide. Detectives are interviewing neighbors, friends, and family members to gain insight into the couple’s relationship and any potential stressors that may have contributed to the incident.
Sgt. Phil Krynsky confirmed that the department is also reviewing evidence collected from the scene, including a firearm believed to have been used in the shooting. Toxicology reports on both Andrew and Ashlee are pending and may provide further clarity on the events leading up to the tragedy.
Authorities have urged anyone with information related to the case to contact the Phoenix Police Department or the anonymous tip line at 1-800-343-TIPS.
A Community Grapples with Grief
As the investigation unfolds, the Phoenix community continues to mourn the loss of Andrew and Ashlee and to rally around their surviving child. The tragedy serves as a sobering reminder of the devastating impact of domestic violence and the importance of seeking help in times of crisis.
For those struggling with mental health or experiencing domestic violence, resources are available. The National Domestic Violence Hotline can be reached at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233), and the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is available at 988.
Final Reflections
The tragic deaths of Andrew and Ashlee Corona and the critical injuries sustained by their child have left a deep scar on the Phoenix community. As loved ones and neighbors come together to grieve and support the surviving child, this heartbreaking incident underscores the urgent need for awareness, support, and intervention in cases of domestic conflict and mental health struggles.
The Coronas’ story is a painful reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of extending compassion to those in crisis. May Andrew and Ashlee rest in peace, and may their child find healing and support in the difficult days ahead.
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