Phoenix police make arrest in shooting of construction workers that left 1 dead

Phoenix police arrested 31-year-old Marquea Cato on September 18, charging him with first-degree murder and attempted murder following a shooting incident on September 1. The altercation occurred while Cato confronted construction workers Alan Whitworth, 48, and Jamal Avery, 19, who were repairing a fence. Cato allegedly shot both men multiple times, fatally injuring Whitworth and critically wounding Avery, who is currently hospitalized. The police located Cato working as an armed security guard at a TruMed marijuana dispensary when they made the arrest. Witnesses provided descriptions that led to his identification, and he was taken into custody without incident.

Cato's bail has been set at $2 million, with a court hearing scheduled for September 27. Sgt. Brian Bower reported that Avery remains in critical condition, and the investigation is ongoing. The case has raised concerns about safety in public spaces and the implications of gun violence in the community.