The Amarillo Police Department continues to investigate a recent shooting in the 300 block of South Mississippi, with multiple specialized units contributing to the case over the past several days. Task Force Officers, the Violent Crimes Unit, Proactive Criminal Enforcement teams, and the Amarillo Regional Crime Center have worked collaboratively to identify and locate a suspect connected to the incident.
Investigators determined that 20-year-old Azaiah Zuniga-Valle was allegedly involved in the events surrounding the shooting. According to findings, the suspect contacted an acquaintance and then reportedly forced the individual at gunpoint to drive him out of Amarillo to a Walmart store in Hereford. Authorities believe the purpose of the trip was to obtain a new cell phone.
Law enforcement officers were able to track down Zuniga-Valle at the Hereford Walmart location. He was taken into custody without incident and arrested on an on-view charge of aggravated assault. In addition to the immediate charge, officers confirmed he had two outstanding warrants, also for aggravated assault. Following the arrest, Zuniga-Valle was transported to and booked into the Deaf Smith County Jail.
During the investigation and arrest, officers recovered a Glock pistol that had been hidden under the driver’s seat of the vehicle involved. The weapon is believed to be a key piece of evidence in the ongoing case.
Officials indicate that the investigation remains active, with additional details continuing to emerge. Authorities have not ruled out the possibility of further charges, including potential federal counts, depending on the outcome of the ongoing inquiry. Law enforcement agencies remain engaged as they work to fully understand the circumstances surrounding the shooting.
