Near 22nd Place and Fawn Drive, Phoenix, Arizona
Authorities in Phoenix, Arizona, have charged a man with first-degree murder and kidnapping after a 33-year-old wheelchair user was found dead near a canal while tied to his wheelchair with plastic bags. The disturbing case has drawn widespread attention because of the unusual circumstances surrounding the victim’s death and the allegations outlined in court documents.
The investigation began after police responded to a report of an unresponsive man near 22nd Place and Fawn Drive. Detectives later identified the victim as Aaron Goodyke, who used a wheelchair and had significant medical conditions. Investigators allege the victim was restrained before being left outside during extreme heat, ultimately leading to criminal charges against the suspect. The defendant is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.
Police Discover Victim Bound to Wheelchair Near Canal
According to the Phoenix Police Department, officers responded to a call regarding “unknown trouble” on the evening of June 25. When they arrived, they discovered Aaron Goodyke unresponsive in his wheelchair near a canal. Police reported that his hands and chest were tied to the wheelchair’s armrests using what appeared to be plastic bags. Investigators also observed signs of a struggle, including numerous footprints and disturbed ground surrounding the location.
Emergency personnel confirmed that Goodyke had died at the scene. Detectives immediately secured the area, photographed evidence, collected forensic material, and began interviewing witnesses. The unusual condition in which the victim was found prompted investigators to treat the case as a homicide rather than an accidental death. Crime scene specialists continued processing physical evidence while investigators worked to reconstruct the victim’s final hours.
Investigators learned that Goodyke, who was diabetic and had previously undergone a below-the-knee leg amputation, had recently been staying at a residence where he was receiving care. Detectives reviewed the circumstances surrounding his care and examined events leading up to the discovery of his body.
Investigation Leads to Murder and Kidnapping Charges
Court documents allege that surveillance footage captured Hector Corrales, 41, and another individual restraining Goodyke by tying him to the wheelchair with plastic bags. Investigators claim the footage also showed the wheelchair tipping backward, causing the victim to strike his head before he was later wheeled away from the residence toward the nearby canal.
Police interviewed Corrales’ mother, who had reportedly been caring for Goodyke. She told investigators that the victim’s health had declined during the week because he allegedly refused food, water, and medical treatment. According to investigators, she stated that Goodyke initially agreed to go to the hospital but later became combative, leading to attempts to restrain him. Authorities are continuing to examine those statements as part of the broader investigation.
Corrales was arrested several days later on an outstanding parole violation warrant before investigators formally charged him with first-degree murder and kidnapping in connection with Goodyke’s death. Police said Corrales declined to provide a statement during questioning. Investigators also believe another individual may have participated in the events, although authorities have not publicly announced additional charges at this stage.
The investigation remains active as detectives continue reviewing forensic evidence, witness statements, surveillance recordings, and other material that may clarify the exact sequence of events.
Detectives Continue Building the Criminal Case
Phoenix police continue working with forensic specialists and prosecutors to assemble evidence supporting the criminal case. Investigators are reviewing surveillance video, electronic evidence, witness interviews, medical findings, and forensic reports to establish a comprehensive timeline. Homicide investigations often require extensive laboratory testing before prosecutors determine how the evidence will be presented in court.
Authorities have emphasized that crimes involving vulnerable victims receive careful investigative attention because they frequently involve complex medical, forensic, and witness evidence. Detectives are also examining whether additional criminal offenses occurred before the victim’s death and whether anyone else may bear legal responsibility.
The case has generated significant public attention throughout Phoenix because of the allegations involving a disabled victim and the extreme weather conditions present at the time. Officials have encouraged anyone with information relevant to the investigation to contact law enforcement, stating that even seemingly minor details could assist detectives.
As the judicial process continues, prosecutors will evaluate the evidence gathered by investigators while defense attorneys will have the opportunity to challenge the allegations in court. The criminal proceedings are expected to continue through the Arizona court system in the coming months.
| Key Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Incident | Homicide investigation involving wheelchair user |
| Location | Near 22nd Place and Fawn Drive, Phoenix, Arizona |
| Victim | Aaron Goodyke, 33 |
| Suspect Charged | Hector Corrales, 41 |
| Charges | First-degree murder and kidnapping |
| Evidence | Surveillance video, forensic evidence, witness statements |
| Investigating Agency | Phoenix Police Department |
| Current Status | Suspect charged; investigation remains ongoing |
The death of Aaron Goodyke has become one of Phoenix’s most closely watched homicide investigations due to the serious allegations surrounding the victim’s treatment before his death. Prosecutors allege that the victim was restrained and abandoned, leading investigators to pursue first-degree murder and kidnapping charges against Hector Corrales.
While investigators continue examining evidence and determining whether additional individuals were involved, the case will now proceed through the criminal justice system. Authorities stress that the investigation remains active and that all criminal charges are allegations. Under the law, the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in court.
Frequently Asked Questions:
1. Where did the incident occur?
The victim was found near 22nd Place and Fawn Drive in Phoenix, Arizona, close to a canal.
2. Who was the victim?
Police identified the victim as Aaron Goodyke, a 33-year-old wheelchair user.
3. What charges have been filed?
Authorities charged Hector Corrales with first-degree murder and kidnapping.
4. What evidence are investigators reviewing?
Detectives are examining surveillance footage, forensic evidence, witness interviews, medical findings, and physical evidence collected during the investigation.
5. Is the investigation complete?
No. Phoenix police say the investigation remains ongoing, and additional evidence continues to be reviewed as the criminal case proceeds.
