Gilbert police arrest 26-year-old after woman found dead during early-morning welfare check at home

Arrest follows overnight welfare check in residential neighborhood

Gilbert police arrested a 26-year-old man after officers responding to a welfare check found a woman dead inside a home early Monday, Jan. 19, 2026, authorities said.

Police identified the suspect as Judah Chesley, 26, who was arrested on suspicion of second-degree murder. The woman’s identity had not been released as of Monday afternoon, and investigators did not disclose the cause of death or describe any injuries.

Timeline provided by investigators

Police said officers were sent to a home on Sheffield Avenue, near the intersection of Ray and McQueen roads, shortly before 2 a.m. after a welfare-check request. When officers arrived, they discovered a woman deceased inside the residence.

Investigators said Chesley was detained at the scene. Police stated the two were in a domestic relationship, but did not provide additional details about the nature of the call that prompted the welfare check or what information led detectives to suspect a homicide.

• Time of call: shortly before 2 a.m., Jan. 19, 2026

• Location: Sheffield Avenue area, near Ray and McQueen roads, Gilbert

• Arrest: Judah Chesley, 26

• Preliminary charge: suspected second-degree murder

What police are not yet saying

Authorities have not released the victim’s name, and no court documents were cited by police in the initial public update. Investigators also have not disclosed whether a weapon was recovered, whether any other individuals were present, or whether the arrest followed interviews, physical evidence, or other investigative steps.

Police emphasized that the investigation remains ongoing and that the reported charge reflects allegations at the time of arrest.

Police said their “thoughts are with the victim’s loved ones and family during this difficult time.”

What happens next

In Arizona, a second-degree murder allegation generally indicates investigators believe a homicide occurred without premeditation, though charging decisions can change as evidence is reviewed. In cases involving a domestic relationship, detectives typically coordinate with prosecutors as autopsy results, forensic analysis, and witness statements are gathered.

Police have not announced a court appearance date or whether additional charges could be considered. Further updates are expected as the victim is formally identified and the findings of the death investigation are completed.