Home invasion in Yuma leaves one man dead
YUMA, Ariz. (KYMA, KECY) - A Yuma man is dead after being shot during a home invasion. A family member has confirmed the victim as 60-year-old Robert Anthony Perez. Perez was shot in broad daylight, outside a home, in the middle of the day. The Yuma Police Department (YPD) responded to the fatal shooting near 15th Place and 44th Avenue.
Police need your help finding the suspects.
"The suspects who entered the residence and threatened the occupants are believed to be the ones who did kill the person that was outside. The suspects left in a green passenger vehicle. They have not been apprehended yet. We’re still looking for any suspect information," says Yuma Police Department Sgt. Lori Franklin.
The men are described as Hispanic, and wore masks during the home invasion. YPD says there were no other injuries in connection with the invasion. However, the men stole some items.
Sgt. Franklin says it is important to always be alert, even in a "good neighborhood."
"It’s not usually the people who live within the neighborhood that are committing the crimes. It’s somebody coming from another neighborhood, coming into your neighborhood. That’s why you always have to be careful," explains Sgt. Franklin.
The community has been vocal on social media sending condolences to the family and sharing in fear.
One person saying…
"That is so scary. Our neighborhood is no longer a safe place."
Another responding…
Prayers for him and his family.
And another saying…
"Robert, you were a good man living a good clean and sober life just trying to do the next right thing. You did not deserve this. R.I.P you will be missed."
While no one wanted to speak on camera, one neighbor confirmed that they have seen various people in and out of the house, and frequent vehicle traffic. They also warned that others should stay away from the home. We spoke to Perez's brother who shared that he hopes justice is served.
Police have not made any arrests and continue to investigate the case.
The Yuma Police Department encourages anyone with any information about this case not to hesitate to contact the Yuma Police Department at (928) 373-4700 or 78-Crime at (928) 782-7463 remain anonymous.
