MESA, AZ — A devastating domestic incident in Mesa has left a 16-year-old boy recovering from a gunshot wound to the neck and his mother in custody. The shooting occurred on Sunday, June 22, 2025, around 8:40 p.m. at an apartment complex near Dobson Road and Southern Avenue, stemming from a heated confrontation involving the teen, his younger sibling, and their mother, 42-year-old Shamonica Cannon.
Mesa Police report that Cannon arrived at the apartment armed with a firearm. The exact circumstances leading to her presence at the location remain under investigation, but authorities indicate the situation quickly escalated. Cannon’s 15-year-old child, witnessing their mother holding the gun, attempted to disarm her out of fear for what might happen. During the struggle, the 16-year-old son intervened to assist, and in the ensuing chaos, the weapon discharged, striking the older teen in the neck.
**Swift Action Saves Teen’s Life
Family members and first responders acted promptly to aid the injured teen. He was rushed to a nearby hospital, where he received immediate medical attention. Authorities confirm the teen is conscious, alert, and expected to recover, though the emotional and physical toll of the incident remains significant.
Police arrived at the scene shortly after 9 p.m. following reports of the shooting. Their initial investigation revealed that the firearm belonged to Cannon, who claimed the discharge was unintentional, occurring during the struggle with her children. Despite her assertion, authorities arrested her at the scene.
**Charges and Ongoing Investigation
Shamonica Cannon faces serious felony charges, including aggravated assault with a deadly weapon and endangerment. She was booked into jail, and her bail has not been publicly disclosed in available reports. The confiscated firearm is now part of the evidence being analyzed by investigators. Mesa Police continue to interview witnesses and gather details to clarify the events leading up to the shooting, including the nature of the domestic dispute and Cannon’s intent upon arriving at the apartment. Authorities have stated the incident was isolated, posing no ongoing threat to the community.
**Community Reels from Tragedy
The Mesa community is grappling with the shock of a domestic dispute turning violent, leaving a teenager wounded by his own mother’s weapon. Residents and advocates are reflecting on the broader implications of such incidents, particularly the dangers of firearms in volatile situations.
“This tragedy underscores how rapidly conflicts can escalate when guns are involved,” said a local community advocate. “It’s heartbreaking to think of children caught in the middle, trying to protect themselves and each other.”
**Support and Next Steps
As the 16-year-old begins his recovery, child protective services are likely assessing the well-being of both children involved. Temporary care arrangements may be in place to ensure their safety while the legal process unfolds. The family faces a challenging road ahead, navigating the emotional fallout and ongoing investigation.
This incident has renewed calls for families in crisis to seek support before disputes turn deadly. Resources like domestic violence hotlines and community organizations offer help to those in unstable or dangerous situations.
If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic conflict, assistance is available. Contact the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or text “START” to 88788 for support.