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Phoenix Man's Death Ruled Homicide After Unresponsive State
11 Aug
Summary
- Phoenix police ruled a man's death a homicide following a family altercation.
- The 36-year-old was found unresponsive by officers responding to a July 28 call.
- Bodycam footage shows officers briefly handcuffing the unresponsive man.
A man found unresponsive after a fight with family members has died, and Phoenix police have now classified his death as a homicide. Bill Blancas, 36, was discovered in a critical state at a home near 44th Street and Baseline Road in the early morning hours of July 28.
Upon arrival, officers observed Blancas being held stomach-down by individuals present. Body-worn camera footage captured officers briefly handcuffing Blancas, who appeared unresponsive, before removing the restraints. Fire-medical personnel subsequently arrived, confirmed Blancas' lack of pulse and cold temperature, and initiated CPR.
Blancas was transported to a local hospital where he was pronounced deceased. While the incident initially led to bodycam footage release, police have stated that a Critical Incident Briefing is not required. An administrative investigation by the Department's Professional Standards Bureau is ongoing.
