Jacob ’JJ’ Levi Carlson, 18, was shot and killed during a backyard altercation at a small house party in Gilbert, Arizona, in the early morning hours of June 18, 2023. Police arrived at about 12:06 AM in the 100 block of West Moore Avenue and found Carlson with gunshot wounds to his chest and upper torso. Officers performed life-saving measures before he was taken to a local hospital, where he died.

A suspect was arrested the next day. On June 19, 2023, 17-year-old Zachariah Brandon Ezell was taken into custody and initially booked as a juvenile; the Maricopa County Attorney’s Office later charged him as an adult. The charges include First Degree Premeditated Murder, Burglary in the 1st Degree, Minor Carrying a Firearm, Disorderly Conduct, and Endangerment. Authorities described the shooting as an isolated incident; no motive has been released.

Friends remembered Carlson as a joyful presence who brought laughter to those who knew him. If anyone attended the party or has information about what happened that night, please come forward.