Gilbert Archives

Revealed Snapchat Messages Link Teen Suspects to Brutal Attacks and Potential Gang Formation in Gilbert, Arizona

GILBERT, Ariz. — A disturbing scenario unfolded in Gilbert near the close of 2022 as Conor Jarnagan, 17, was brutally assaulted by a group of teens outside a local In-N-Out Burger. The attack, involving brass knuckles and demands for money, is part of a growing concern over youth violence in the area. According to police reports, on December 30, Jarnagan and a friend were confronted by a gang of 10-12 youths who initially demanded $20, …

Court Appearance Set for Gilbert Goons Defendants Connected to Group Violence Cases

Phoenix, Arizona – Two of the teenage defendants linked to the Gilbert Goons group violence cases were slated to appear in court on Thursday. 18-year-old Christopher Fantastic faces charges of assault and robbery stemming from an incident outside of an In-N-Out in Gilbert in August 2023. Maricopa County Attorney Rachel Mitchell disclosed that Fantastic was indicted in January 2024 on charges of aggravated robbery and aggravated assault for allegedly attacking another teen who was lying …

Rachel Mitchell Decides None of “Gilbert Goons” to Face Death Penalty in Beating Death Case of Preston Lord

Phoenix, Arizona – Maricopa County Attorney Rachel Mitchell announced on May 15 that none of the individuals involved in the beating death of 16-year-old Preston Lord, known as the Gilbert Goons, will face the death penalty. This decision comes after more than four months of investigation and the arrest of seven suspects in connection with the incident that occurred at a 2023 Halloween party in Queen Creek. While all seven suspects are facing first-degree murder …

Family Seeks Answers as $2,000 Reward Offered in Gilbert Woman’s Murder Case

GILBERT, Ariz. — Gilbert police are offering a $2,000 reward for any new information that could lead to an arrest in the murder of Rachel Hansen, a 19-year-old woman who was shot to death by an intruder in her apartment near San Tan Village Parkway and Ray Road on June 4, 2022. Hansen called 911 to report the break-in and shooting, but tragically succumbed to her injuries after being taken to the hospital. The victim’s …

Meet the Ryan Family: A Portrait of Love and Togetherness in Gilbert, 2023

GILBERT, Ariz. – Dillon Ryan, a resident of Gilbert, Arizona, spends quality time with his family on December 29, 2023, as they enjoy various activities in the comfort of their home. The family photos capture the love and joy shared amongst the members of the Ryan family. In one of the images, Dillon Ryan is seen playing a video game with his son, Carson, while his wife, Casi, and daughter, Layla, look on with happiness. …

Four Arrested in Gilbert for Violent Group Attack on Teen Boy in August

GILBERT, AZ – Gilbert police have arrested four individuals, including two juveniles, in connection to a violent group attack on a teenager that occurred in August. The suspects, 18-year-olds Christopher Fantastic and Aris Arredondo, along with two 16-year-olds, are accused of assault and robbery of a teen boy in Gilbert. Both Fantastic and Arredondo are being held on $25,000 secured bonds, with the two 16-year-olds being referred to the Maricopa County Juvenile Court. Charges against …

Rise of the Gilbert Goons: A Timeline of Teen Violence in the East Valley

PHOENIX, AZ – The East Valley area has been facing a surge of teen violence and a possible emergence of a gang known as the Gilbert Goons. The death of 16-year-old Preston Lord has shed light on these issues, prompting an intense investigation involving multiple law enforcement agencies. The timeline of events includes a violent attack against a minor at an In-N-Out Burger, Lord’s fatal assault outside a Halloween party, and subsequent involvement from the …

Arrest Made in Connection with Violent Attacks on Minors in the East Valley: Suspect Admits Association with Gilbert Goons

PHOENIX, AZ – Five individuals have been taken into custody in connection with violent attacks on minors in the East Valley last year. One of the suspects admitted to being associated with the notorious gang Gilbert Goons, according to authorities. Jacob Pennington, 20, of Gilbert, was arrested for his involvement in a November attack in San Tan Valley. Pennington confessed to his association with the Gilbert Goons during a post-arrest interview, according to a probable …

Teen Suspect in Custody for Brutal Assault in Gilbert, Arizona

GILBERT, Ariz. – A teenager has been taken into custody in connection with a brutal assault in Gilbert, Arizona. The incident occurred in broad daylight on Monday, leaving the victim with serious injuries. The shocking attack took place at a local park, where the victim was beaten by a group of individuals. The violent beating was captured on video and quickly circulated on social media, sparking outrage among the community. The teenager who was arrested …

Arrests Made in Connection with Violent Attacks on Minors in East Valley Linked to Gilbert Goons Gang

PHOENIX – Five people have been arrested for their involvement in violent attacks on minors in the East Valley last year. One of the suspects, Jacob Pennington, admitted to being associated with the notorious gang Gilbert Goons, according to authorities. Pennington was arrested for his involvement in a November attack in San Tan Valley, where the victim sustained minor injuries. In a separate case, Christopher Fantastic and three other suspects were arrested in connection with …