Homicide investigation underway after body found on side of road in west Phoenix

PHOENIX – A homicide investigation is underway after a woman was found dead in west Phoenix last week, authorities said.

Officers responded to a call about an object that appeared to be a body on the side of the road in the area of 56th Avenue and Broadway Road around 10:50 p.m. Friday, the Phoenix Police Department said.

The Maricopa County Medical Examiner’s Office took custody of the remains, which were wrapped in large amounts of material. The deceased person was identified as 24-year-old Jioenise Summerfield.

“Detectives are now investigating this as a homicide. Details on what led up to the homicide as well as the cause of death are all part of the ongoing investigation,” Sgt. Jen Zak said in a media advisory.

Anyone with information about the case is asked to call Silent Witness at 480-WITNESS (948-6377) or 480-TESTIGO (837-8446) for Spanish. Callers can remain anonymous, and tips that lead to an arrest could be eligible for a cash reward.

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