SNOWFLAKE, Arizona — The Snowflake-Taylor Police Department, with help from regional agencies, arrested a suspect following a shooting in Snowflake that left a 20-year-old man critically injured, authorities announced March 17, 2025. The suspect, 54-year-old Mark Ruiz, faces multiple felony charges after the early morning incident on March 8.
Officers responded to a South Savage Street residence at 3:32 a.m. after reports of a bleeding male in the front yard. They found the victim with multiple gunshot wounds. He was rushed to Summit Healthcare in Show Low, then airlifted to a Valley hospital for advanced care. Investigators say Ruiz shot the victim after an argument, prompting a standoff. The White Mountain Regional Special Response Team was called due to the armed suspect’s presence inside the home.
Ruiz and another person initially refused to exit. After hours of negotiations, Ruiz surrendered and was arrested without further incident. He was booked into Navajo County Jail on charges including attempted second-degree murder and aggravated assault, with a $5 million bond. On March 11, a Navajo County grand jury indicted him on five felony counts: attempted second-degree murder (Class 2), two counts of aggravated assault (Class 3 dangerous), misconduct involving weapons (Class 4), and tampering with evidence (Class 6).
A second victim, an 18-year-old relative of Ruiz, was allegedly assaulted with a gun and baseball bat while protecting the shooting victim. Navajo County Attorney’s Office victim services provided support. Chief Robert Martin praised the response: “This was a dangerous situation that required a coordinated effort. I commend our officers and assisting agencies for their professionalism in de-escalating it and ensuring safety.”
The investigation involved the White Mountain Homicide Task Force, Navajo County Sheriff’s Office, and Show Low Police Department. Suspect and victim identities align with the press release, with no conflicting reports. Gaps remain on the argument’s cause and the second person inside the home. Contact Chief Martin at 928-536-7500 or rmartin@stpd.org for inquiries.
