PHOENIX, AZ – A tragic incident unfolded in Phoenix where a 4-year-old boy was shot in the face during a dispute at a local apartment complex. On January 6, the altercation escalated, resulting in the child suffering injuries, though they were not life-threatening.
The shooter, identified as 29-year-old Joanna Chalup Cortez, is now facing serious charges following the event. Authorities have charged Cortez with two counts of aggravated assault among other charges, including disorderly conduct with a firearm and discharging a weapon at a residence. She is currently being held at Maricopa County Jail with bail set at $500,000.
Court documents reveal the incident occurred near 29th Street and Weir Avenue, shortly after noon. The dispute involved Cortez, several other women, and her boyfriend’s former girlfriend. Tensions that had been brewing since earlier in the day reached a peak when the parties converged at the apartment, which is home to the ex-boyfriend’s brother, his girlfriend, and their young son, Qahsiem Sinclair.
The situation deteriorated further when some of the men present began sharing the conflict on social media, enraging Cortez. According to police reports, she returned to the scene later, repeatedly honking her car horn and sending threatening messages to Qahsiem’s mother, including a warning that she would “shoot up the house.”
Law enforcement officials reviewed surveillance footage that showed Cortez exiting her vehicle, loudly demanding those inside to come out, before she fired a rifle towards the building. A bullet hit Qahsiem in the cheek as he stood nearby with his scooter, also causing damage to several teeth.
Emergency services quickly transported Qahsiem to a nearby hospital, where he was treated for his injuries. Although they were severe, doctors confirmed they were not life-threatening. His family reported the emotional toll the event has taken on him, despite relief at his physical recovery.
Cortez fled the scene following the shooting but surrendered to police later. She claimed in a social media post, which was shared by Qahsiem’s family, that she had not intended to injure the child and was unaware of his presence. She reiterated this claim in messages to the boy’s mother.
Despite her claims, Qahsiem’s father firmly believes that Cortez must be held accountable, sharing that his son had just stepped outside with his scooter when Cortez fired the shot and likely knew people were outside. The family has initiated a fundraising campaign to help with the medical expenses incurred, describing the event as devastating and seeking support from the community.
The ongoing investigation continues as police piece together the exact circumstances surrounding the harrowing event. Cortez is expected to face the charges in court soon. Meanwhile, Qahsiem is now recovering at home with his family, who are grateful for his survival but shaken by the incident.