A Phoenix man has been arrested in connection with the beating death of his 76-year-old roommate with a construction helmet after a dispute over their electric bill.
According to Sergeant Chris Berrelleza of the Phoenix Police Department, on April 30th, 2026, just before 10:30 p.m., Phoenix Police responded to a domestic violence aggravated assault at an apartment complex in the area of 2400 West Hazelwood Street. The caller, who was later identified as Manuel Martinez, said he was arguing with his roommate, later identified as Troy Yazzie, over the electric bill.
When officers arrived, they learned Troy assaulted Mr. Martinez with a construction helmet, resulting in injuries to his face and head. Mr. Martinez was able to provide his statement to officers prior to being transported to the hospital for his injuries. Troy fled prior to police arrival, but officers were able to confirm his identity and processed the scene.
Mr. Martinez remained in the hospital, however his condition worsened and on July 11th, 2026, he succumbed to his injuries and was pronounced deceased. At this time, the investigation was assumed by detectives from the Violent Crimes Bureau Homicide Unit.
Detectives worked diligently on this case and developed probable cause to arrest and charge Troy Yazzie with Mr. Martinez’s death. During the course of the investigation, detectives learned Troy moved away to Flagstaff. Detectives from the Crime Impact Unit coordinated with the Flagstaff Police Department regarding this information, and on July 28th, 2026, Troy was taken into custody by members of the Flagstaff Police Department. Members of the Phoenix Police Fugitive Apprehension Investigations Detail responded to Flagstaff to transport Troy back to Phoenix where he was booked for 1 count of 2nd degree murder.
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