Arizona Teen Charged With Murder After Brother Struck by Car in Yuma Parking Lot
YUMA, Ariz. — A family tragedy has unfolded in Yuma after a 19-year-old man was charged with first-degree murder in connection with the death of his younger brother during a confrontation in a Starbucks parking lot.
The incident occurred around 7:57 p.m. on September 13. When police and firefighters arrived, they found 17-year-old Javier Figueroa unresponsive. He was transported to a nearby hospital, where he later died from his injuries.
According to investigators, the altercation began as a “road rage” dispute involving Javier, his older brother Juan Figueroa, and a 36-year-old man whose name has not been released. The confrontation reportedly escalated into a physical fight.
Court records show Juan Figueroa was arrested hours later and booked into the Yuma County Jail on charges of first-degree murder and attempted murder. He is being held on a $500,000 bond. Police say Juan admitted driving his vehicle toward the 36-year-old man to defend his brother but accidentally struck Javier instead.
Their father, Joseph Figueroa, told FOX 8 that both sons called him during the altercation and that he urged them to call 911. “I’m trying to bury one son and bail the other one,” he said, calling the situation devastating.
Friends have since launched a GoFundMe campaign to assist the family with funeral expenses, memorial arrangements, and other immediate needs.
The investigation remains ongoing as authorities review evidence and witness statements.
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