Two Employees Killed at Tempe Little Caesars, Suspect Arrested
Two employees at a Little Caesars in Tempe were shot and later died after a morning attack, and police arrested a 27 year old man at the scene. The killings have left families and the community reeling, prompted a strong law enforcement response, and spurred fundraising and calls for information to assist an active investigation.
Two employees at a Little Caesars restaurant near Guadalupe and Rural roads were shot and later died after a morning incident on December 1. Tempe Police detained 27 year old Benjaman Visser Jr. at the scene after officers heard gunfire, found the scene and located Visser still there holding a gun. He was booked on two counts of premeditated murder and held on a 2 million dollar cash bond.
The victims were identified as 32 year old Shaquille Simmons and 21 year old Mary Visser, both employees of the restaurant. Police said Benjaman and Mary were married, and investigators reported the suspect believed his wife and Simmons were in a relationship. Simmons family members denied that a relationship existed. Family members described the deaths as senseless and said the victims had simply shown up to work.
The shooting occurred at about 9 a.m., and it prompted a swift and visible response from local law enforcement. Little Caesars management and local officials expressed condolences and said they would cooperate with investigators. The investigation remained active in the days after the attack, and authorities asked anyone with information to contact the Tempe Police Department.
For residents and co workers in the area, the case underscores the importance of staying alert and sharing information with investigators. If you were in the vicinity the morning of the shooting, witnessed anything unusual, or have video from traffic or doorbell cameras, provide that information to police. Community organized fundraising efforts including GoFundMe campaigns were arranged to assist the victims families with immediate expenses.
This case is both a criminal prosecution and a community trauma. The arrest at the scene and the charges against Visser Jr. move the legal process forward, while families and neighbors continue to grieve and seek answers. Local law enforcement continues to investigate, and authorities remain the point of contact for anyone with relevant information.
