Phoenix police arrest man accused of firing paintballs at North Phoenix mosque during early-morning incident
Arrest follows investigation into weekend incident near a North Phoenix Islamic center
Phoenix police have arrested a 30-year-old man in connection with an early-morning incident in which shots from a pellet-style device were fired toward a mosque and people gathered there, authorities said Tuesday.
The incident occurred around 2:30 a.m. on Saturday, March 7, 2026, at a mosque near 23rd Avenue and West Joan de Arc Avenue. Police said witnesses reported a suspicious vehicle approaching the gate before a man exited and pointed what initially appeared to be a firearm. Witnesses said they heard several “popping” sounds and moved to safety.
Police later determined the sounds were consistent with a pellet or paintball gun. Investigators said the suspect returned to the vehicle and continued firing paintballs toward the group, striking several parked vehicles before leaving the area. No injuries were reported, and an initial search of the surrounding neighborhood did not locate a suspect. Officers said patrols were increased in the area as a precaution while detectives took over the investigation.
What investigators say led to the suspect
Police identified the suspect as Michael Dominguez, 30, and said he was taken into custody on Monday, March 9. Investigators said detectives worked with a street-crimes unit to review surveillance video and other evidence, which they said helped identify the vehicle believed to have been used; police said the vehicle was registered to Dominguez.
Authorities said pellet-style firearms similar to the one used in the incident were seized. Police have not reported injuries but said property damage was documented, including vehicles struck by paintballs.
Charges filed and next procedural steps
Dominguez was booked on multiple allegations, including aggravated assault, criminal damage, misconduct involving weapons, dangerous drug possession, narcotic drug possession, and a probation violation, police said. The case remains under investigation, and police have encouraged anyone with information to contact law enforcement.
Security response and broader context
The incident drew an immediate security response around the mosque, reflecting heightened sensitivity to threats at places of worship. Police said the department recognizes that such incidents can cause concern for communities gathering in religious and public spaces and stated that increased patrols would continue while investigators pursue additional leads.
Phoenix city leadership publicly condemned the incident and reiterated that religious communities should be able to gather without fear.
Date and time reported: March 7, 2026, around 2:30 a.m.
Location: area of 23rd Avenue and West Joan de Arc Avenue in Phoenix
Reported weapon type: pellet/paintball-style device; no injuries reported
Status: suspect arrested March 9; investigation ongoing
Police have not released further details about motive or whether additional charges could be filed as investigators continue reviewing evidence.