Man Claims Self-Defense in Deadly South Phoenix Apartment Shooting

Suspect Quinton Pierce charged with second-degree murder after shooting death of Isaiah Springs

Published on Feb. 10, 2026

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A 44-year-old man named Quinton Pierce has been charged with second-degree murder after allegedly shooting and killing 35-year-old Isaiah Springs in a south Phoenix apartment. Pierce claims he acted in self-defense, saying Springs was being aggressive and he feared for his safety due to a disability, but witness accounts differ on the details leading up to the shooting.

Why it matters

This case raises questions around the use of lethal force, the validity of self-defense claims, and how to balance public safety with an individual's right to protect themselves. It also highlights the challenges in determining the facts when there are conflicting witness accounts of a violent incident.

The details

According to court documents, on Sunday night around 11:30 pm, police were called to the Vineyard Estates Apartments in south Phoenix where they found Isaiah Springs had been shot in the abdomen. Springs was rushed to the hospital but later died from his injuries. Suspect Quinton Pierce claims he shot Springs in self-defense after the two got into an argument and Springs 'started to go after him.' However, witness accounts differ, with one saying Springs 'challenged' Pierce to fight but was not actively trying to fight, and another saying they didn't believe Springs deserved to be shot.

  • On Sunday, around 11:30 p.m., officers were called to the Vineyard Estates Apartments.
  • Isaiah Springs was rushed to the hospital, where he later died.

The players

Quinton Pierce

A 44-year-old man who has been charged with second-degree murder for the shooting death of Isaiah Springs.

Isaiah Springs

A 35-year-old man who was shot and killed by Quinton Pierce in a south Phoenix apartment.

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What they’re saying

“You come at me, I will shoot you”

— Quinton Pierce (Court documents)

“I should have used my mace" and "I should have just left the apartment”

— Quinton Pierce (Court documents)

“He was not actively trying to fight and I didn't believe that he deserved to be shot”

— Witness (Court documents)

What’s next

Prosecutors will review the evidence and witness accounts to determine if Pierce's claim of self-defense is valid, which could impact the charges he faces.

The takeaway

This tragic incident highlights the complexities around the use of lethal force and the challenges in determining the facts when there are conflicting witness accounts. It will be up to the justice system to carefully weigh the evidence and decide if Pierce's actions were justified or if he should face more serious charges.