Phoenix Castanon, 19, a Navy sailor from Arizona stationed at Great Lakes Naval Station and training to be a Gunner’s Mate, was shot and killed on May 8, 2022, in West Allis, Wisconsin. That night Castanon was with his fiancée and a friend. The friend was walking home when she was approached by Derrick Williams, who tried to force her into his vehicle; she escaped and ran toward Castanon and his fiancée waiting in an SUV. Castanon drove to confront Williams and was shot during the confrontation; he was pronounced dead at the scene despite life-saving efforts.

Surveillance video later captured a red GMC Acadia leaving the area soon after the shooting. Investigators say additional evidence came from a May 29 stop of Williams by Milwaukee police, when a firearm was seen and a gunshot heard from his vehicle; the State Crime Lab linked that gun to the fatal shooting. Williams was arrested on July 20, 2022, and charged with first-degree intentional homicide.

Castanon’s actions are described as defensive — he was trying to protect his friend when he was killed. If anyone knew Phoenix, his movements that night, or has information about the confrontation, please come forward.