Random Killing

PHOENIX - It has been about 24 hours since a nearly 50-year-old shopper was gunned down outside a Phoenix Kmart. 

That woman's killer is still on the loose. The killing happened Monday night in the 300 block of Baseline. Police released the victim's name as 48-year-old Luz Navarro. 

3TV talked to a family member who says they are obviously devastated. Police say the crime was completely random, probably a botched robbery. 

Word of the parking lot murder is rippling through the plaza and has left other shoppers stunned. One woman says, "Can't believe it." 

Witnesses say the attacker approached other people outside the Kmart asking for cigarettes. Police say the suspect lurked in the lot for half an hour before targeting the 48-year-old victim, who was alone and carrying bags. 

James Holmes, with Phoenix police, says, "It's absolutely terrible, tragic, and senseless." 

This is a tragic reminder that parking lot crime goes up during holiday shopping season. 

Holmes says, "The economy has nothing to do with it. It's the time of the year and predators know more people are out shopping right now." Their annual advice is to shop in groups, carry your keys in your hand and do not linger too long in your car. 

Now Phoenix police stand guard at the store doors as the hunt for the attacker continues. 

Police are looking for a black male in his 20s. He was wearing a black hoodie and jeans Monday night. He had been seen earlier in an old, grey Chevy pickup. Police are hoping tips from the public can help them solve this murder. 

Anybody with any information about the suspect or the person of interest in this deadly shooting should contact the police or Silent Witness at 480-WITNESS (480-TESTIGO).