Caleb Russell arrested
Sedona AZ (July 9, 2014) – On July 2, 2014, at about 10:30 in the evening, Chino Valley Police responded to a report of a shooting at a Taco Bell restaurant in the 1000 block of AZ State Route 89. Upon arrival, a Chino Valley Police officer and deputies from the Yavapai County Sheriff’s Office found people fleeing the parking lot and immediately began to search for witnesses and suspects. Fortunately, no one was injured in the shooting.
The investigation pointed to suspect Caleb Russell, 26, of Chino Valley. He had been involved in a physical altercation with a 13-year-old juvenile in the parking lot of the Taco Bell when another juvenile, 17, tried to intervene to help the 13-year-old.
After the 17-year-old confronted Russell to stop the physical altercation, a verbal exchange between the two ensued. Russell then pulled out a firearm and fired a single round into the asphalt at the feet of both juveniles. As those in the area began to flee, Russell fired a second round toward the juveniles. None of the bullets struck any person and no one reported any injuries.
Russell was accompanied by a friend, Brian Strickland, 22, of Chino Valley, and the two fled the scene in Strickland’s vehicle with Strickland driving. During the evening, police attempted to locate both men and the vehicle but were unable to do so. The next day, police apprehended Strickland and his vehicle in Chino Valley, soon followed with Russell’s arrest.
Police served multiple search warrants on the two men and the Strickland vehicle. A firearm was located during the searches, along with other evidence.
Police are looking into the involvement of Russell into other incidents including a burglary, theft of property and other physical altercations. He has been charged with three counts of aggravated assault and one count of possession of stolen property.
Strickland was charged with one count of facilitation of aggravated assault. The two men were booked into the Yavapai County Jail. Additional charges may be filed by the Yavapai County Attorney’s Office after all investigations are complete.
The Chino Valley Police Department would like to thank the Yavapai County Sheriff’s Office for its assistance in this case.
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The swift and coordinated response of the Chino Valley Police and the Yavapai County Sheriff’s Office to the shooting incident at a Taco Bell restaurant showcases their dedication to maintaining public safety and their efficiency in crisis management. Their ability to quickly secure the scene, gather evidence, and apprehend the suspects reflects a high level of professionalism and commitment to the community’s well-being. This incident highlights the importance of law enforcement agencies working together to ensure swift justice and the safety of citizens, demonstrating their crucial role in maintaining order and preventing further harm in potentially dangerous situations. The thorough investigation and subsequent charges laid against the individuals involved underscore the seriousness with which the authorities treat such violent offenses, reinforcing the message that such actions have significant consequences.