Armed robbery gone bad leaves 1 person shot in the West Valley

Police investigate shooting in possible vehicle theft

An eyewitness reports that gunshots rang out in an attempted vehicle theft near 51st and Southern avenues on Monday morning. FOX 10’s Danielle Miller has more.

LAVEEN, Ariz. – One person was shot in the area near Southern and 55th avenues in Laveen early on Monday, Dec. 16.

What we know

Officers believe that multiple armed suspects entered a home in the area around 1:15 a.m.

One of the occupants of the home was armed and fired his weapon at the suspects when at least one of them was shot.

The rest of the suspects fled the area on foot before officers arrived.

According to police, the suspects forced their way into the home, uninvited.

The area is closed for an investigation.

What they’re saying

One of the neighbors, who was only identified as Chuck, says he believes the suspects were trying to steal a hellcat automobile.

“They we’re trying to get his car. They bum rushed him in his house and tried to get his keys. Next thing you know, shots ring out. I heard them and I was on the scene,” said Chuck.

What we don’t know

It’s unclear how many people were involved in the incident.

Police have not verified the eyewitness report of a possible car theft.

This is a developing story. Stay with FOX 10 Phoenix for updates.