[Update] Tucson Police detectives have identified the victim as 63-year-old Gary Rachal. His next of kin has been notified. Detectives learned Mr. Rachal was involved in an altercation in the alley with a male, identified as 38-year-old Michael Thomas Payne, who had been staying at a nearby residence. During the course of the altercation, Mr. Rachal received what appeared to be multiple stab wounds. Mr. Payne fled the area but was located and apprehended by officers a short distance away, without incident. Payne was arrested for 2nd Degree Murder. He was transported and booked into the Pima County Jail.
The Tucson Police Department is investigating a homicide that occurred Saturday night in the 2300 block of S. Saddleback Ave. On June 24, 2017, shortly before 8:30 p.m., officers responded to a report of a fight in the 2300 block of S. Saddleback Ave.
Officers found a man in the alley behind a residence with obvious signs of trauma. Officers immediately began rendering first aid utilizing their Individual First Aid Kits (IFAK) and summoned paramedics. Members from the Tucson Fire Department responded to the scene and assumed treatment of the male.
The male succumbed to injuries was pronounced deceased on scene. According to police, his identity is being withheld, pending next of kin notification.
Detectives are speaking with several people involved in the incident along with other witnesses. As they continue this investigation, they are encouraging anyone with information related to this incident to please call 911 or 88-CRIME (you can remain anonymous).