Maricopa County Attorney Rachel Mitchell has announced the sentencing of Gerardo Vazquez Alvarez for the brutal murder of his ex-girlfriend, a 25-year-old mother working to support her family.
On April 12, 2023, a routine evening at a Burger King in West Phoenix turned into a nightmare. Phoenix Police responded to reports of a shooting at the fast-food restaurant. Witnesses recounted the chilling events: Alvarez arrived, ordered food, and waited for the victim to approach the front counter before mercilessly shooting her. A teenage coworker was also critically injured in the attack. The incident stemmed from a heated argument between Alvarez and the victim over their relationship and children.
Maricopa County Attorney Rachel Mitchell condemned Alvarez’s actions, emphasizing the far-reaching consequences of his violence. “Not only did a young mother lose her life that night, but multiple y
oung people were also put in harm’s way and will have to live with the trauma of what they saw and heard due to the defendant’s callous actions,” Mitchell stated. “In committing this offense, he altered many lives, but most of all, those of his own young children.”
On April 11, 2024, Alvarez pled guilty to several charges: one count of Second-Degree Murder, a Class One Dangerous Felony; one count of Attempt to Commit Second Degree Murder, a Class Two Dangerous Felony; and one count of Disorderly Conduct, a Class Six Dangerous Felony. The court sentenced Alvarez to a cumulative 42 years in the Department of Corrections.
The courtroom was filled with emotional testimony, including a heart-wrenching statement from the victim’s parents. “She was an exemplary mother…she guarded her children so much because they were her greatest treasure, but now she has left such a huge void in us,” they told the court.
This case is a stark reminder of the devastating effects of domestic violence and the importance of seeking help. If you or someone you know is experiencing abuse, please call or text the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233 or visit [www.thehotline.org].
As the community grapples with this tragic loss, the sentencing of Gerardo Vazquez Alvarez serves as a powerful message that such heinous acts of violence will not go unpunished. It also highlights the urgent need for continued efforts to support and protect those affected by domestic violence.
