SE Valley Times

In a community statement, Gilbert Police Chief Michael Soelberg addressed the recent tragic deaths of three East Valley teens and the alleged incidents of teen violence in Gilbert that have caused fear and frustration among residents. Chief Soelberg expressed his condolences and acknowledged the impact these incidents have had on the community.

"We have heard from residents and from people in our neighboring communities about how these incidents, although unrelated, have greatly impacted them due to the violence that has led to the tragic loss of these three youths," Chief Soelberg said.

Arrests have been made in both the Casa Grande and Pinal County investigations, and Queen Creek PD is actively working on their thorough investigation. Chief Soelberg assured the community that the Gilbert Police Department is doing everything possible to investigate and prosecute those responsible for any acts of violence in Gilbert.

"Recent alleged incidents of teen violence in Gilbert have heightened community awareness and we want to make it known that we condemn any violence within our community," Chief Soelberg stated.

Addressing the social media references to a group known as the "Gilbert Goons," Chief Soelberg clarified that the police department has not received any reports connecting this group to any alleged criminal activity in the community.

"What we know at this time is that Gilbert PD does not have police reports from victims or suspects associating or connecting the named group to any alleged reported criminal activity in our community," Chief Soelberg emphasized.

He urged community members to share any concerns or relevant information directly with the Gilbert PD or the appropriate jurisdiction to avoid confusion or misinformation online.

"We encourage any concerns or relevant information regarding these or other incidents of this nature to be shared directly with Gilbert PD by calling 480-503-6500, or the appropriate jurisdiction, to avoid potentially creating online confusion or misinformation," Chief Soelberg urged.

The Gilbert Police Department remains committed to ensuring the safety of the community and will continue to work on teen safety education through school resource officers, a dedicated crime prevention team, and the department's social media channels.

Click this link to access more information: https://www.gilbertaz.gov/Home/Components/News/News/5797/352