2 dead after 2 Tempe shootings, including 1 near Arizona Mills

PHOENIX – Two men were dead after a pair of Wednesday night shootings in Tempe, including one near Arizona Mills Mall, that police said were unconnected but drug-related.

Police responded to the first shooting just before 8 p.m. in the parking lot east of the shopping center.

Officers found a 24-year-old male victim with a gunshot wound to the chest. He was taken to a local hospital, where he died from his injuries, according to the Tempe Police Department.

Police said they found evidence, including bullet holes in a vehicle and cartridge casings, indicating that the shooting occurred in the parking lot of the El Pollo Loco restaurant near Arizona Mills. Police believe the victim then attempted to flee toward the mall.

Around 11:30 p.m., Tempe police found two more gunshot victims after responding to a parking lot near Broadway Road and Priest Drive.

An 18-year-old man found inside a vehicle died after being taking to a hospital. A 19-year-old man who was outside the vehicle was hospitalized in critical condition with life-threatening injuries.

Police said there was no indication the shootings were connected, although drugs were believed to be involved in both incidents.

The investigations are ongoing, police said. Anybody with information about either of the shootings was asked to call the Tempe Police Department at 480-350-8311.

Tipsters can remain anonymous if they wish.

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