Family of Phoenix father killed in July 4 shooting seeks justice

PHOENIX (AZFamily) — Paul Franco, 51, was shot and killed outside his Phoenix apartment complex last Thursday night as he walked home from an Independence Day festival.

Arizona’s family met with Franco’s son and daughter on Monday to discuss what happened.

“It hurts a lot,” said Serena Franco. “I never thought this would happen to my father because someone like him never deserved this.”

Serena and Paul Franco Jr. said their father and his girlfriend had just gone to the Fabulous Phoenix Fourth event at Steele Indian School Park and were on their way home when the girlfriend got into a heated altercation with pro-Palestinian protesters near Camelback Road and Central Avenue.

The verbal argument turned violent.

Moments later, Paul Franco was shot multiple times and pronounced dead at the scene.

“He was such a kind, caring person,” said Paul Franco Jr. “He always put other people first. He was never quick to resort to violence. He loved everyone.”

According to Phoenix police, a woman who they believe was involved in the shooting was taken in for questioning and later released without charges on the grounds of “self-defense.”

The Francos insist that their father never threatened to harm anyone.

“My father would never do something like that to anyone, and I can’t even imagine what he was thinking and feeling at that moment, given how traumatic it was,” Serena Franco said. “We weren’t there to hold him. I wasn’t there to talk to him.”

Arizona’s family contacted Phoenix police and was told they were reviewing surveillance video and witness statements and that the investigation was ongoing.

The victims’ children know there is nothing that will bring their father back, but they believe someone must be held accountable for their father’s death.

“There is still no information about what led to this or what caused the escalation,” said Paul Franco Jr. “My father was not violent at all, violence was always a last resort.”

“I hope that anyone who has information can come forward,” said Serena Franco. “It doesn’t matter if it’s tiny or minimal information, anything helps, you know.”

The victim’s son and daughter confirmed that their father was carrying a gun. However, it is unclear whether he pulled it out first or shot someone.

Another man was also stabbed in the incident, but this may not be related to the shooting.

Phoenix police said they will turn the case over to the Maricopa County Attorney’s Office after completing their investigation to determine whether to file charges.

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