2 Arizona teens linked to vehicle thefts after 1 shoots self in leg

An investigation into a 16-year-old’s gunshot wound led detectives to evidence linking two teens to vehicle thefts and weapons offenses, according to the Yavapai County Sheriff’s Office.

The two teens, whose names have not been released, were arrested last week, YCSO announced Thursday.

The investigation began when deputies responded to a Cottonwood hospital on May 9 after the teen was dropped off with a gunshot wound. He was later flown to a Flagstaff hospital for surgery and is expected to recover.

Why were the two Arizona teens arrested for alleged vehicle thefts?

Detectives and medical staff determined the wound was self-inflicted. Investigators also learned a sedan had left the hospital after dropping him off, which helped them identify and locate another teenager.

Detectives later served search warrants at the teens’ homes and found evidence tied to vehicle thefts and weapons offenses.

Investigators said the teens had allegedly recorded themselves committing the crimes.

Anyone with information that can help the case is urged to call the sheriff’s office at 928-771-3260.

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