Francisco Juan Acevedo, a 35-year-old resident of Chandler, Arizona, was sentenced on April 17 by U.S. District Judge Susan M. Brnovich to two consecutive life sentences plus additional prison time after being convicted of shooting three people during a family gathering on the Gila River Indian Community.
The case is significant because it involved violent crimes committed on tribal land and resulted in severe consequences for both the victims and their families. The U.S. Attorney for the District of Arizona works with federal, tribal, state and local law enforcement agencies according to the official website.
Acevedo was found guilty in October 2025 of eight charges including first degree premeditated murder, assault with intent to commit murder, multiple counts of assault with a dangerous weapon and resulting in serious bodily injury, as well as discharging a firearm during a crime of violence. The incident occurred on Easter Sunday in April 2022 when Acevedo shot and killed his uncle and seriously injured two others at the gathering.
“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.”
FBI Phoenix Special Agent in Charge Rebecca Day said: "The toll of these crimes has a devastating and long-lasting impact on tribal families. 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 along with FBI’s Phoenix Division.
The U.S. Attorney for the District of Arizona serves Arizona—including its border region with Mexico—and supports community wellness through outreach programs according to its official website. It handles federal prosecutions across civil matters throughout Arizona according to its official website, consisting of about 180 assistant attorneys supported by approximately 160 staff members according to its official website. As part of the Department of Justice according to its official website, it coordinates law enforcement efforts statewide while supporting initiatives that promote safety.
