Pregnant Teen Murdered in Phoenix Park

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A medical examiner's report has provided new details on the murder of 16-year-old Zariah Dodd, who was 22 weeks pregnant when her body was found at a Phoenix park in July 2025. The report revealed that Dodd died from a gunshot wound to the head. Two men, 36-year-old Jurrell Davis and 18-year-old Jechri James-Gillett, have been charged with two counts of first-degree murder in Dodd's and the unborn baby's deaths.

Why it matters

This tragic case highlights the vulnerability of pregnant teenagers and the need for greater support and protection for at-risk youth. It also raises questions about the role of adults in the lives of minors and the complex dynamics of relationships and power imbalances.

The details

According to court records, Dodd left her group home with a man on July 4 and did not return. She texted that they were 'driving in circles' and that she was scared. Her phone was later pinged near the home of 36-year-old Jurrell Davis, who police believe was the father of Dodd's unborn child. James-Gillett, 18, has confessed to the murder, claiming that Davis had ordered him to shoot Dodd or Davis would kill them both. Davis denies ordering the killing but admits to picking up Dodd and James-Gillett and dropping them off at the park, then returning after getting a call that Dodd had been killed.

• Dodd's body was found on July 5, 2025, at Marivue Park near 57th Avenue and Osborn Road.
• Dodd was 22 weeks pregnant at the time of her death.

What they’re saying

What’s next

The judge will decide on Tuesday whether to allow Jurrell Davis to be released on bail.