Man Arrested in Fatal Circle K Shooting in Phoenix

Norman Sanders taken into custody for November killing of Kevin Mitchell at north Phoenix convenience store

Feb. 4, 2026 at 9:55am

Nearly three months after a late-night confrontation turned deadly at a north Phoenix Circle K, police have arrested 42-year-old Norman Sanders in connection with the November shooting that killed 45-year-old Kevin Mitchell. Homicide detectives are continuing to investigate the case and are encouraging anyone with information to contact Silent Witness.

Why it matters

This arrest is a significant development in the homicide investigation, but it does not guarantee a conviction. The case will now move into the court system, where prosecutors will review the evidence before potentially filing formal charges against Sanders.

The details

According to reports, the shooting unfolded in mid-November when officers responded to reports of gunfire in the 27th Avenue corridor and found Mitchell with at least one gunshot wound. He later died at a hospital. Phoenix police arrested Sanders on Tuesday in connection with the killing, but formal charges and booking details were not immediately available. Homicide detectives are still working leads in the case and interviewing witnesses.

  • The shooting occurred in mid-November 2025.
  • Police arrested Norman Sanders on Tuesday, February 4, 2026.

The players

Norman Sanders

A 42-year-old man arrested in connection with the fatal shooting of Kevin Mitchell at a north Phoenix Circle K in November 2025.

Kevin Mitchell

A 45-year-old man who was killed in a shooting at a north Phoenix Circle K in mid-November 2025.

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What’s next

If prosecutors decide to file charges, the case will move into the court system, beginning with an arraignment. At this stage, prosecutors typically review the homicide unit's evidence before bringing formal counts.

The takeaway

This arrest is a significant step in the homicide investigation, but it does not guarantee a conviction. The case will now move into the legal system, where prosecutors will determine whether to file formal charges against the suspect based on the evidence gathered by homicide detectives.