Grand jury indicts Phoenix woman accused of shooting 4-year-old boy during dispute at south Phoenix home

Indictment filed weeks after Jan. 6 shooting at Somo Lofts

A Maricopa County grand jury has indicted 29-year-old Joanna Chalup Cortez in connection with the shooting of a 4-year-old boy who was struck in the face at a south Phoenix home on Jan. 6, 2026. Prosecutors announced the indictment on Monday, Feb. 2, 2026.

The case centers on a confrontation at the Somo Lofts near 32nd Street and Broadway Road. Investigators say the dispute was tied to a breakup and escalated into gunfire directed at a residence, with a child inside the home suffering serious injuries.

What investigators say happened

Police were dispatched to the area around 12:19 p.m. on Jan. 6 after a call for help. Officers found the child with an apparent gunshot wound and Phoenix Fire personnel transported him to the hospital. The boy later underwent emergency surgery, and relatives have said he is expected to survive.

Investigators allege Cortez arrived outside the home and demanded that someone come out. Court records described a series of threats communicated shortly before shots were fired, including a statement that she would “shoot up the house.”

Security video reviewed by investigators allegedly shows a woman outside the residence holding what appears to be a rifle, yelling, and firing toward the home. The child was hit through an open door, suffering injuries to his face.

Charges and procedural posture

Prosecutors said the indictment includes one count of aggravated assault against children along with additional related charges tied to the shooting and the alleged discharge of a firearm at a residence.

Cortez surrendered to police on Jan. 7, one day after the shooting, and was booked into jail. Authorities have said they are not looking for additional suspects.

In court proceedings following her arrest, bond was set at $500,000. A judge set the case on a track that includes a trial date of May 20, 2026. A court appearance is expected during the summer as the case moves through pretrial stages.

Key verified timeline

• Jan. 6, 2026: Shooting reported at a south Phoenix residence; 4-year-old boy hospitalized with serious injuries.
• Jan. 7, 2026: Joanna Chalup Cortez turns herself in and is booked into jail.
• Feb. 2, 2026: Grand jury indictment announced by the Maricopa County Attorney’s Office.
• May 20, 2026: Trial date currently set in court scheduling.

A grand jury indictment is a formal accusation and does not determine guilt. The charges must still be proven in court.