Suspect Arrested for First-Degree Murder and Arson in Deadly Tempe Shootingdetail

Tempe, AZ - The Tempe Police Department arrested 39-year-old Blaine Blystone yesterday, in connection with a deadly shooting and fire that occurred on September 26, 2025, at an apartment complex at 800 E. Curry Road.

Just after 3 p.m., 38-year-old Gustavo Gonzales was in his car getting ready to leave, when Blystone began firing several rounds from his apartment into Gonzales' car. Neighbors called 911 after hearing the gunfire and seeing the victim inside his car.

Officers arrived and found Gonzales with serious injuries. He was taken to the hospital, where he was later pronounced dead.

After the shooting, investigators say Blystone set fire to his own apartment and shot himself in the stomach. Police located him as he was leaving through his garage. Blystone told officers that unknown people had shot him and set his apartment on fire, but investigators found evidence at the scene showing he was connected to both the shooting and the arson.

Following surgery at the hospital, Blystone admitted to detectives that he carried out the attack, saying it was intentional but that he did not personally know the victim.

On October 5, 2025, after being medically cleared from the hospital, Blystone was booked into jail on the following charges:

• First-Degree Murder (Class 1 Felony)
• Arson (Class 2 Felony)
• Discharge of a Firearm at a Nonresidential Structure (Class 3 Felony)
• Unlawful Discharge (Class 6 Felony)

The Tempe Police Department extends its gratitude to the residents who called 911, cooperated with investigators, and showed patience during temporary evacuations. The Department also commends the quick and coordinated response of officers, firefighters, and detectives, whose professionalism, compassion, and commitment to excellence helped bring this dangerous situation to a safe conclusion