The Tragic Death of Hailey Stephens: Killer is sentenced as packed courthouse breaks down

The boy, who was 13 at the time of the crime, was among several other suspects arrested.

PUBLISHED 6 DAYS AGO

The sentencing -- in an overflowing court room -- brought some semblance of closure to a case that has deeply affected Hailey's family.

Phoenix, Arizona: A 14-year-old boy found guilty of killing a 17-year-old Casa Grande was sentenced to four years in juvenile corrections until his 18th birthday for the death of Hailey Stephens, who was shot and killed at a house party last November.

Hailey was caught in the crossfire when a shooting broke out during a party at a vacant home. At least 16 gunshots were fired, and Stephens was shot in the head. She later died in hospital.

The boy, who was 13 at the time of the crime, was among several other suspects arrested for Stephens’ murder. However, the 14-year-old was the only suspect who went to trial.

Hailey’s mother, friends, and two surviving students who were with her on the night she was killed also delivered emotional victim impact statements.

The sentencing -- in an overflowing court room -- brought some semblance of closure to a case that has deeply affected family, friends, and the community.

During the hearing, the prosecution described the teenage defendant as a dangerous individual, arguing that his release would pose a continued threat to the community. They highlighted his suspected gang associations and pushed for the maximum sentence allowed by law. Ultimately, the judge sentenced the teen to four years in the Arizona Department of Juvenile Corrections, keeping him in custody until he turns 18.

Hailey’s mother, friends, and two surviving students who were with her on the night she was killed also delivered emotional victim impact statements. Through They shared the devastating impact Hailey’s death has had on their lives. One friend said, “Bullets don’t have names. Unfortunately, this one hit somebody—a beautiful light in this world.”

The defense team argued for leniency, emphasizing the defendant's young age and lack of maturity. They suggested that another person involved bore greater responsibility for the tragedy. However, their arguments did not sway the court, as the judge upheld the prosecution’s stance on the maximum penalty.