The Arizona Department of Public Safety announced on Mar. 12 that a state trooper arrested a suspect wanted in connection with multiple shootings following a traffic stop on State Route 95 north of Lake Havasu City.
The arrest is significant because it removed a violent offender from the community and may help resolve several recent shooting cases in Bullhead City.
According to the department, the incident occurred on the morning of March 5 when a trooper stopped a pickup truck for speeding. During the stop, the front-seat passenger gave a false name and refused to provide proper identification. When asked to step out for further investigation, the individual resisted physically, leading to a struggle. The trooper used his Taser to subdue and detain the suspect safely.
A fingerprint scan identified the man as 23-year-old Gilberto Mendez III, who was wanted on active parole warrants including one for second-degree murder. He was also sought by Bullhead City Police in connection with several shootings in recent months. “We thank the Arizona Department of Public Safety for their assistance in apprehending this violent suspect, who is believed to be connected to multiple shootings in Bullhead City over the past several months,” said Bullhead City Police Corporal Walter Morales. “This arrest is an important step in holding those responsible accountable and keeping our community safe.”
Mendez was booked into Mohave County Jail on his outstanding warrants and faces additional charges such as resisting arrest, aggravated assault on a first responder, and identity theft.
The department said this case demonstrates how routine traffic enforcement can play an important role in public safety by removing dangerous individuals from Arizona communities.
