A night out at an after-hours nightclub on University Drive in Phoenix ended in gunfire on January 17, 2021, killing 24-year-old Ahmad Thornton. The shooting occurred around 5:00 a.m. after a larger altercation; six other adult men were wounded. Emergency responders arrived after multiple 911 calls reporting gunshots and screaming, and Thornton was pronounced dead at the scene.

Family remembered Thornton as loyal, loving, and generous, someone who rarely went to clubs, didn’t drink, and preferred video games with hopes of competing professionally. Phoenix Police believe multiple shooters were involved and described the crowded, chaotic scene as a challenge for the investigation. No arrests have been publicly announced; Thornton’s family set up a GoFundMe to help with expenses.

If anyone witnessed the shooting or has information that could identify those responsible, please come forward to assist the investigation.