Traffic stop for speeding leads to arrest of Arizona murder suspect

PHOENIX — A routine traffic stop led to the arrest of a wanted violent offender, according to the Arizona Department of Public Safety.

Gilberto Mendez III — who had multiple active parole warrants, including one for second‑degree murder — was discovered on March 5.

Mendez, who was also wanted by the Bullhead City Police Department in connection with multiple shootings, was in the front passenger seat when a trooper stopped a truck for speeding, according to DPS.

During the stop, Mendez allegedly gave the trooper a false name and became “evasive” and refused to give his real name after further questioning.

Eventually, the trooper told Mendez to exit, and he physically resisted, DPS said. The trooper used a Taser to subdue and detain him.

After a fingerprint scan revealed his identity, Mendez was booked into the Mohave County Jail on his warrants. However, he now faces additional charges, including:

• Resisting arrest
• Aggravated assault on a first responder
• Identity theft

Bullhead City Police Cpl. Walter Morales thanked the trooper for being diligent and helping to put Mendez behind bars.

“We thank the Arizona Department of Public Safety for their assistance in apprehending this violent suspect, who is believed to be connected to multiple shootings in Bullhead City over the past several months,” Morales said in a press release. “This arrest is an important step in holding those responsible accountable and keeping our community safe.”

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