Mesa, AZ – A tragic shooting incident at Caswells Shooting Range, located at 856 E Isabella Ave, claimed one life on the afternoon of April 6th, 2025. Mesa Police Department (MPD) and Mesa Fire Department responded to a 911 call reporting a firearm injury at approximately 4:45 p.m., launching a swift investigation into the circumstances of the fatality. The event has raised questions about safety protocols at the long-standing indoor shooting facility, a staple of the East Valley community since 1988.
Details of the Incident
The emergency call alerted authorities to a critical situation at Caswells, a premier indoor shooting range known for its 11 air-conditioned lanes and extensive firearms inventory. Upon arrival, Mesa Police secured the scene, restricting access to the facility, while Mesa Fire personnel immediately began treating the victim. Initial reports from officers indicated the individual, whose identity has not been released, still had a pulse. Despite efforts, the victim’s condition deteriorated, and roughly 20 minutes later, emergency crews and the ambulance departed without the patient. Authorities confirmed the individual was pronounced dead at the scene.
Mesa Police are actively investigating the incident, focusing on the sequence of events leading to the fatal shooting. No details have been released regarding the victim’s age, gender, or whether the incident involved another individual, a firearm malfunction, or an accidental discharge. The investigation is ongoing, with MPD expected to review surveillance footage, interview witnesses, and examine the firearm involved. Authorities have not indicated whether foul play is suspected, and no additional injuries were reported.
Caswells Shooting Range, established in 1988, is a well-regarded destination for shooting enthusiasts, offering rentals, training, and retail services. With a 4.7-star rating from over 1,800 Groupon reviews, it’s praised for its climate-controlled environment, NRA-certified instructors, and Ladies Days on Tuesdays and Fridays, which offer free lane and gun rentals for women. The range, located in a commercial area of Mesa near the Loop 202, serves a diverse clientele, from beginners to seasoned shooters, and hosts shooting matches and concealed carry classes.
Response and Investigation
Mesa Police Department’s response was prompt, with officers securing the scene to ensure safety and preserve evidence. Mesa Fire’s medical efforts, though unsuccessful, reflect the urgency of the situation. The MPD’s Criminal Investigations Division is leading the probe, likely involving forensic analysis and witness statements. Caswells Shooting Range has not issued a public statement, and it’s unclear if the facility was temporarily closed following the incident.
This tragedy underscores the inherent risks of firearms, even in controlled environments like indoor ranges. Mesa, Arizona’s third-largest city, has grappled with rising crime concerns, with 14 homicides cleared in 2024, per AZ Family. The Caswells incident, occurring in a facility designed for safety, raises questions about whether human error, equipment failure, or other factors played a role. Community members on X have urged stricter oversight of ranges, while others defend Caswells’ reputation, citing its long history of safe operations.
The absence of detailed information about the victim or incident specifics limits public understanding, a common issue in early-stage investigations. Mesa Police’s reticence may aim to protect the investigation but risks fueling misinformation, as seen in speculative X posts. Caswells’ silence is notable, given its community prominence; a proactive statement could clarify safety measures. Broader concerns about gun violence in Arizona, where permissive laws allow easy firearm access, loom large, with critics on X arguing that ranges must enforce stricter protocols to prevent accidents. Conversely, supporters of Caswells point to its 4.5-star Yelp rating and rigorous training programs as evidence of its commitment to safety.
