‘Horrific beating’ in central Phoenix leaves 1 dead, police say

PHOENIX — A man was found beaten to death on Valentine’s Day in central Phoenix, the city’s police department said.

Phoenix police officers were called to a dead body in an apartment building near 7th Avenue and West Grant Street in the afternoon on Valentine’s Day. 

Phoenix police officers found 35-year-old Darius Smith with “obvious signs of trauma” and police determined Smith died before police got to the apartment.

Detectives spoke to witnesses and worked to find surveillance footage. Police said there were signs of foul play and no suspects have been taken into custody.

Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the Phoenix Police Department or Silent Witness. 

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