Phoenix police are investigating a homicide after the body of a young woman was discovered wrapped in material along a west Phoenix roadway late Friday night. The discovery prompted a large police response and an intensive overnight investigation as authorities worked to determine the circumstances surrounding her death.
According to the Phoenix Police Department, officers were dispatched just before 11 p.m. to the area of Broadway Road east of 59th Avenue after callers reported seeing an object on the side of the road that appeared suspicious and possibly human. When officers arrived, they found an object heavily wrapped in material, making it difficult to immediately determine what it was.
Investigators secured the scene and spent several hours carefully examining the area. After further inspection, authorities confirmed the object was a human body. Detectives processed the scene late into the night, collecting evidence and documenting the location where the remains were found. The area was partially closed as the investigation continued.
On Sunday, police identified the victim as 24-year-old Jioenise Summerfield. Authorities stated that evidence gathered at the scene led investigators to believe her death was the result of a homicide. Officials have not disclosed how long Summerfield’s body may have been at the location or the events that led up to her death.
The Maricopa County Medical Examiner’s Office took custody of Summerfield’s remains and is conducting an autopsy to determine the official cause and manner of death. Police have not released details about possible suspects or motives, saying the investigation is still in its early stages and information is limited.
Phoenix police are urging anyone with information related to Summerfield’s death to come forward. Tips can be submitted anonymously through Silent Witness by calling 480-WITNESS (480-948-6377) or 480-TESTIGO, or by submitting information online. Investigators say even the smallest detail could be critical as they continue working to bring answers and justice in this case.
