PHOENIX – Phoenix Police detectives have arrested multiple suspects connected to a series of burglaries at the former Echo Canyon School campus located in the area of 4300 North 62nd Street that resulted in more than $283,000 in stolen and damaged property.
According to Phoenix Police Department Sergeant Sheree Lee, the investigation began after four suspects forced entry into the decommissioned Echo Canyon School, located near 4300 North 62nd Street, on October 11, 2026. Although no longer operating as a school, the property continues to be used for community events and for storing equipment belonging to the Scottsdale Unified School District.
Detectives determined the suspects unlawfully entered multiple buildings and rooms throughout the campus over several days, stealing and damaging significant amounts of computer equipment and other property. Scottsdale Unified School District reported approximately $230,000 in stolen or damaged computer hardware and an additional $51,000 in property damage.
Investigators from the Phoenix Police Department’s Property Crimes Bureau processed the extensive crime scene and developed investigative leads.
Detectives learned the crimes were connected to a social media-driven “urban exploration” trend in which individuals enter properties they believe to be abandoned and share content online. In this case, the activity escalated into multiple felony burglaries and criminal damage offenses.
On October 30, 2026, Phoenix Police served a search warrant at a residence in north Scottsdale, detaining two suspects and recovering evidence linked to the crimes. During interviews, an adult male suspect later identified as Blake Eldredge, admitted to participating in the burglaries and provided information that led investigators to an additional suspect and the location of more stolen property.
A third suspect was later arrested in Mesa, and detectives executed a second search warrant that resulted in the recovery of additional evidence.
Blake Eldredge was booked into jail on multiple felony charges. The juvenile suspects were released to their parents, and charges have been submitted to the Maricopa County Attorney’s Office for review.
This investigation highlights the effectiveness of collaboration between law enforcement agencies and school officials. The partnership resulted in the identification of those responsible, the recovery of stolen property, and accountability for those involved.
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