Family of woman killed in South Phoenix shooting searching for answers, justice

Family demands justice after deadly shooting

A 72-year-old woman died after she was shot in her own front yard in a South Phoenix neighborhood, and as the family grieves, they are also demanding justice, as well as searching for answers. FOX 10;'s Lauren Clark has more.

PHOENIX - A family is searching for answers after a 72-year-old woman was shot and killed.

The victim, identified as Joanne Smith, died as a result of what police called a drive-by shooting.

Family said the shooting happened quickly

Timeline:

The deadly shooting happened just after 5:30 p.m. on Feb. 2 near 22nd Street and Roeser Road.

The victim's son, Thomas, said she was outside in her front yard, sitting in a chair, when a vehicle drove by.

"All of a sudden, multiple gunshots," said Thomas.

"I think it was a malicious act, a cowardly act," said Dana Burns, who knew the victim.

First responders drove Smith to the hospital, where she later died. The suspect, or suspects, remain unknown at this time.

Victim's family demands answers

As the investigation continues, Joanne's family and loved ones are grieving the loss of a person they describe as a kind soul who loved her family, community, and sports.

What they're saying:

"She was the neighborhood granny," said Burns. "She would walk around, do her walks. She never met a stranger. That was Miss Joanne"

"She loved football and basketball. She was a big LeBron James fan. I used to joke with her all the time: Hey! Why don’t you move to LA! This is Phoenix. You got to start liking [Devin] Booker," Thomas said.

Now, loved ones want those responsible held accountable for what happened.

"Help us out," Thomas said. "Turn these guys in so we can get some justice."

"This was a 72-year-old. Great-grandmother at that. A mother, a sister, an aunt, a friend, a friend, a neighborhood loved angel. That’s who she was. So we really need community to come forward," said Burns.

What you can do:

Smith’s family has set up a GoFundMe page to help with funeral expenses.

Meanwhile, anyone with information about the crime are urged to contact Silent Witness at 480-WITNESS. Spanish speakers can call Testigo Silencioso at 480-TESTIGO,