PHOENIX, ARIZ. — This is an official press release from the U.S. Department of Justice (Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)), published as received.

PHOENIX, Ariz. – On April 17, 2026, Francisco Juan Acevedo, 35, of Chandler, Arizona, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Susan M. Brnovich to two consecutive life sentences plus additional prison time related to the shooting of three victims.

On Easter Sunday, April 17, 2022, at a family gathering on the Gila River Indian Community, Acevedo shot and killed his uncle, shot and seriously injured another uncle, and shot and seriously wounded a third victim. On Oct. 23, 2025, Acevedo was found guilty at trial of eight charges: one count of First Degree–Premeditated Murder, one count of Assault with Intent to Commit Murder, two counts of Assault with a Dangerous Weapon, three counts of Assault Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury, and one count of Discharging a Firearm During and in Relation to a Crime of Violence.  

“My thoughts are with the victims of this terrible crime and their families, as they continue to deal with heartbreak and long-term injuries. Mr. Acevedo’s sentence of life in prison is just,” said U.S. Attorney Timothy Courchaine. “This week is National Crime Victims’ Rights week, where we recognize those affected by unthinkable crimes as well as the individuals who advocate for them. I am especially proud of the dedicated work of Tribal police, special agents, victim specialists, and assistant U.S. attorneys who fight every day to give voice to victims and mete out justice on their behalf.”

"The toll of these crimes has a devastating and long-lasting impact on tribal families,” said FBI Phoenix Special Agent in Charge Rebecca Day. “Collaborating with our partners, FBI Phoenix will continue to aggressively investigate the most serious offenses on tribal lands and pursue justice for victims in Indian Country."

The investigation was conducted by the Gila River Police Department and the FBI’s Phoenix Division. The prosecution was handled by Raynette Logan and Vinnie Lichvar, Assistant U.S. Attorneys, District of Arizona, Phoenix.

CASE NUMBER:            22-CR-01040

RELEASE NUMBER:    2026-065_Acevedo

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For more information on the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/az/

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