TUCSON, AZ — On January 4, 2025, Tucson police responded to a fatal shooting in the 800 block of West Ajo Way after receiving a 9-1-1 call just after 1:30 p.m. Officers from Operations Division South arrived to find 23-year-old Nazhoni Nunez with gunshot trauma. Despite immediate first aid efforts by officers and paramedics, Nunez was pronounced deceased at the scene.
The male involved in the incident, who called 9-1-1, remained on-site and fully cooperated with law enforcement. Detectives from the Homicide Unit conducted a thorough investigation, including interviewing witnesses and canvassing the area. Preliminary findings revealed that Nunez had been in a domestic relationship with the man and reportedly forced her way into his apartment. A confrontation ensued, during which the man discharged his firearm, striking Nunez.
At this time, no charges or arrests have been made. Police have stated the investigation is ongoing, and the case will be submitted to the Pima County Attorney’s Office for review upon completion.
Domestic violence situations can escalate quickly, and the legal use of force in self-defense is often scrutinized in the aftermath of such incidents. In Arizona, individuals are allowed to use deadly force if they reasonably believe it is necessary to protect themselves or others from imminent death or serious bodily harm. However, this justification is not automatic—each case is evaluated on its unique circumstances, and legal determinations are made by prosecutors or the courts.
In this incident, the male resident reportedly used a firearm after his former partner forcibly entered his home, an act that can heighten the perceived threat level. While Arizona law generally recognizes the right to defend oneself in one’s home (commonly referred to as the “Castle Doctrine”), the specific details of the confrontation will play a key role in determining whether the use of deadly force was legally justified.
For gun owners, this situation highlights the importance of understanding state self-defense laws and being able to articulate why an action was necessary under the circumstances. Training in de-escalation, conflict avoidance, and maintaining situational awareness can often prevent violent outcomes. If you are in a potentially dangerous domestic situation, it’s vital to seek help from local law enforcement or resources like the National Domestic Violence Hotline (1-800-799-SAFE).
Lastly, responsible firearm ownership includes securely storing weapons to prevent unauthorized access and ensuring they are only used in situations where their deployment is legally and morally justified.
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