Andrew Torres

Andrew Baltazar Torres was a gifted athlete, a dedicated student, and a beloved son and brother whose quiet loyalty and unforgettable smile left a lasting mark on those who knew him. Born and raised in Phoenix, Arizona, Andrew, 23, channeled his discipline and passion into wrestling. He was a three-year varsity wrestler at Marcos De Niza High School, achieving an impressive 57-1 record and becoming a US Open Greco All-American during his senior year. His talent on the mat took him to Arizona State University, where his brother Alex was also on the Sun Devil wrestling team, and later to Arizona Christian University. Friends and family remembered him as a kind, sweet, and caring young man. Beyond his athletic pursuits, Andrew was a registered behavior technician, working with children and planning a future in both wrestling and fire safety.

On the evening of Tuesday, June 22, 2021, Andrew’s promising life was cut short by gun violence. Phoenix police officers responded to a call about a shooting just before 10 p.m. in the area of 75th Avenue and Indian School Road. When they arrived, they found Andrew on the ground in a parking lot, suffering from at least one gunshot wound. Paramedics from the Phoenix Fire Department rushed him to a local hospital, but his injuries were too severe, and he was pronounced dead. The specific circumstances that led to the shooting have not been released to the public, leaving a painful void for his loved ones and the community. The shooting happened in the Maryvale neighborhood of Phoenix, a community that has contended with its share of violence.

The Phoenix Police Department immediately launched a homicide investigation into Andrew's death. Detectives canvassed the area for evidence and potential witnesses, hoping to piece together the events of that tragic night. However, the investigation has been met with a frustrating lack of public leads. In the days and years following the killing, authorities have not publicly identified any suspects or persons of interest, nor have they released a potential motive for the crime. The case has gone cold, with no arrests made and no new information shared with the community.

The silence from law enforcement has been agonizing for Andrew's family, who are left to navigate their grief without answers or justice. His father's simple message on a memorial page, "Missing you so much Son! Love Dad," speaks to the profound and enduring pain of his loss. Friends from his childhood remembered him as "the kindest, sweetest boy," while others recalled his adventurous spirit and loving nature. One tribute captured the sentiment of many: "The world needed more people like you." His family and friends' hearts remain forever broken by the sudden and senseless act that stole him from them.

In the immediate aftermath of his death, friends and family gathered to mourn and celebrate Andrew's life. A visitation and funeral service were held, allowing the community to come together to share memories and support one another in their grief. A graveside service provided a final, somber farewell. These gatherings painted a picture of a young man who was deeply loved and whose absence created an irreplaceable void.

As of late 2024, the murder of Andrew Torres remains unsolved. His family continues to wait for a breakthrough in the case that might bring them a measure of closure. The Phoenix Police Department has not announced any new developments, and the search for the person or people responsible for his death continues. The case stands as a painful reminder of a life full of potential, tragically extinguished. Anyone with information about the shooting is urged to contact the Phoenix Police Department or Silent Witness to help bring justice to Andrew and his grieving family.