Good morning, Maricopa.

The Pinal County Attorney’s Office announced Tuesday that it will seek the death penalty against 37-year-old Roger Nunez who is accused of fatally shooting Officer Gabriel Facio during a traffic stop chase in June—he is scheduled to return to court on Sept.

15.

Maricopa County Attorney indicted 19-year-old Arnold Barney for first-degree murder and child abuse after his 6-week-old son died from internal injuries following an alleged incident in late July at an apartment near Alma School Road and Southern Avenue — Barney is held on a $1 million bond and will stand trial in April 2026.

Wildfires destroyed two longstanding Arizona structures as the North Rim's Grand Canyon Lodge burned on July 12 and the wooden Oxbow Bridge collapsed over the Colorado River on August 1—prompting plans for rebuilds.

Park officials and county leaders are working to honor the legacy of Brighty, a wild burro remembered for over a century.

Residents in Wittmann are launching an incorporation effort to oppose BNSF's plan for a large rail hub that they fear will bring heavy traffic, noise, and pollution—threatening their quiet way of life.

Keep Us Rural LLC will soon begin collecting signatures and plans to hold an election within 180 days to gain local control and protect the community.

A new COVID-19 strain, Stratus (also known as XFG), has been detected in Arizona since May and was linked to a 42% rise in positive tests last week.

Health experts say the variant causes typical COVID symptoms and recommend wearing masks in crowded public spaces.

On Aug. 12, the Phoenix Suns announced head coach Jordan Ott’s staff for the 2025-26 NBA season, naming assistant coaches including Jesse Mermuys and DeMarre Carroll along with player development coach Mateen Cleaves.

The Suns—having already changed coaches three times in four seasons—will open the season on Oct. 22 against the Sacramento Kings.

Rookie cornerback Will Johnson with the Arizona Cardinals will make his NFL debut tomorrow at a joint practice with the Denver Broncos.

He honed his skills in Detroit at the Sound Mind Sound Body program—where he built his signature anticipation and intelligence—that his coaches praise for keeping the defense strong.