08/17/2026
* OFFICIAL PRESS RELEASE *
HOMICIDE INVESTIGATION
The Casa Grande Police Department is currently investigating a homicide that occurred in the parking lot of a bar located at 1801 North Pinal Avenue. The incident was reported at approximately 1:45 a.m. on Saturday, August 15, 2026.
The victim, 37-year-old JACOB ENCINAS, suffered what appears to be a single gunshot wound to his upper torso and was pronounced deceased. The suspect, identified as 21-year-old TRISTEN LEE ALVAREZ, fled the scene prior to officers’ arrival and has not been located.
Alvarez is currently being sought by law enforcement and should be considered armed and dangerous. Anyone who sees Alvarez or knows his current location should not approach him and should immediately contact law enforcement.
Although this remains an active investigation, Detectives have determined the victim and suspect were involved in a verbal altercation in the parking lot prior to the shooting.
Detectives have collected significant evidence related to this investigation, and the crime scene has been processed and reopened to the general public. No other injuries were reported as a result of this incident.
Detectives are asking anyone with information regarding this incident or the whereabouts of TRISTEN LEE ALVAREZ (pictured) to contact Detective T. Miller at (520) 840-2824 or [email protected]. Information may also be provided by calling the Casa Grande Police Department non-emergency line at (520) 421-8700, option 7.
Those wishing to remain anonymous may contact Silent Witness at (520) 836-2100.
This remains an active investigation, and additional information will be released when appropriate.
