Arizona man sentenced to 20 years in prison for 2023 murder

PHOENIX — An Arizona man was sentenced to 20 years in prison for murdering a man two years ago, according to a Monday announcement from the Maricopa County Attorney’s Office.

Noel Jesus Gordillo, 37, killed his victim near 28th Drive and Cactus Road in Phoenix on March 5, 2023, prosecutors said.

Police who responded to reports of a man bleeding from his head found the victim, Christopher Gonzales, inside a local business. He was pronounced dead at the scene.

Gordillo had already served two prison sentences at the time of the murder. He had six prior felony convictions, prosecutors said.

“This criminal has proven again that he cannot live in our community and must be incarcerated,” Maricopa County Attorney Rachel Mitchell said in the announcement.

Man sentenced to 20 years in prison for 2023 murder

Using surveillance footage, investigators found Gonzales had been standing with two other men near 28th Drive prior to the shooting.

The cameras showed Gordillo approaching on a bicycle. He stopped and shot Gonzales in the head, prosecutors said.

Gonzales then tried to get help at a nearby business before succumbing to his injuries, prosecutors said.

Investigators also used witness statements and 911 calls. Gordillo was arrested on March 15, 2023. He was found guilty of second-degree murder by a jury in December 2024.

“To the family and friends of the victim, my heart goes out to them,” Mitchell said. “I hope this sentence gives them peace of mind in knowing this criminal will not be back out on the streets for years, serving time for the pain and damage he has caused.”

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