Homicide Arrest

On July 28th, 2019 we responded to 530 S Dobson #448 in Mesa for a reported stabbing. On scene we located an adult male later identified as Dontavius McCaslin, with a stab wound. McCaslin was transported to the hospital where he later succumbed to his injury. The investigation revealed McCaslin had been in a verbal argument with a known female acquaintance named Daylajae Hudspeth. Witnesses on scene heard Hudspeth arguing with McCaslin and described a scuffle occurring in the back room.

Hudspeth remained on scene and was interviewed by investigators. She explained she was in an off and on relationship with McCaslin and admitted to stabbing him during the verbal argument. Some of her statements didn’t match evidence obtained at the scene and although she said she was punched by him, there were no signs of injury to her face.

Prior to this incident on, 07/20/19 Hudspeth was arrested for assaulting McCaslin and had been ordered to stay away from him. Hudspeth has now been charged with one count of 2nd degree murder and one count of failing to comply to a court order.

Daylajae Hudspeth

Attempt to Identify -- Theft of Wallet and Credit Cards

Fatal Collision - Arrest

On July 9th, 2019 just after 5 pm a bicyclist was traveling East on McDowell just West of Higley Road when he was struck by a vehicle also traveling Eastbound. The bicyclist (identified as 67 year old Scott Purdie) was pronounced deceased at the scene and the driver of the vehicle remained at the scene and cooperated with the investigation. The collision investigation determined that the vehicle had drifted into the bike lane striking the bicyclist. The driver showed numerous signs of impairment and a Drug Recognition Expert was called to the scene. After a thorough investigation the driver was arrested for one count of manslaughter. The driver later admitted to using Heroin and Methadone and further admitted to using Methamphetamine earlier in the week. At the time of his arrest he was in possession of Heroin and drug paraphernalia. The driver was identified as 29 year old Zachary Taylor. He has been charged with one count of manslaughter, narcotic drug possession and possession of drug paraphernalia.