A 41-year-old woman, Janice Laborin, has died after suffering a gunshot wound to the head in what police believe to be a domestic violence-related shooting in Surprise, Arizona.

The incident occurred on Sunday night, February 11, 2025, around 11:00 p.m. in a residential neighborhood near Bell Road and Dysart Road. Laborin was rushed to the hospital in critical condition, but after days of fighting for her life, she succumbed to her injuries, authorities confirmed on Thursday.

The Surprise Police Department is actively investigating the case. However, they have yet to release details regarding a suspect or any possible arrests. Officials assure the public that there is no ongoing threat to the community, but they urge anyone with information to come forward.

Laborin’s death marks yet another heartbreaking case of domestic violence, an issue that continues to impact families across the nation.

The Tragic Night: What We Know So Far

According to reports, police received a 911 call late Sunday night about a woman suffering from a gunshot wound at a residence near Bell Road and Dysart Road. When officers and emergency responders arrived, they found Janice Laborin unresponsive, with a severe head wound.

Paramedics immediately began life-saving efforts and transported her to a nearby trauma center. Doctors worked tirelessly to stabilize her condition, but despite medical intervention, Laborin succumbed to her injuries several days later.

“It was a horrific scene,” one responding officer recalled. “You could tell she had fought for her life.”

Authorities have not released the identity of any suspects or confirmed whether an arrest has been made. Detectives are working to piece together the events that led to the shooting, examining possible domestic disputes, previous police reports, and witness statements.

Domestic Violence and Gun Violence: A Deadly Combination

Laborin’s tragic death is a reminder of the dangers of domestic violence and the devastating impact firearms can have in these cases. Studies show that when a firearm is present in a domestic violence situation, the risk of homicide increases by 500%.

Experts in domestic violence intervention emphasize that warning signs are often present before violence escalates to deadly levels. Common red flags include:

• Escalating threats or physical violence
• Controlling behavior by a partner
• Prior police reports or protective orders
• Financial and emotional manipulation

If Laborin’s death is confirmed to be a result of domestic violence, it will add to the growing number of women killed by intimate partners each year.

According to the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence (NCADV):

• Nearly 50% of female homicide victims in the U.S. are killed by a current or former intimate partner.
• Over 4.5 million women have been threatened with a gun by an abuser.
• Only 34% of victims seek help before an incident turns deadly.

Community Reaction: A Call for Justice

News of Laborin’s passing has left the Surprise, AZ, community devastated. Neighbors and friends described her as a kind and hardworking woman who was loved by many.

A close friend of Laborin, Maria Gonzalez, shared her grief:

“Janice was an amazing person. She had the biggest heart, always helping others. She didn’t deserve this.”

Local organizations dedicated to domestic violence awareness are calling for swift justice and urging victims to seek help before situations escalate.

“We need to do more to protect women like Janice,” said Stephanie Morales, director of the Arizona Domestic Violence Advocacy Group. “Too often, these cases end in tragedy.”

Ongoing Investigation: What Authorities Are Looking Into

As the investigation continues, police are focusing on several key aspects of the case:

• Who was responsible for shooting Janice Laborin?
• Was there a history of domestic violence in the household?
• Had police been called to the residence before?
• Was there a restraining order in place?
• Was the firearm legally owned?

Investigators are also examining Laborin’s phone records, text messages, and any security footage that may have captured the moments leading up to the shooting.

Legal Consequences: What Charges Could Be Filed?

If authorities confirm that the shooting was intentional and domestic violence-related, the suspect could face severe legal consequences, including:

• First-Degree Murder – If premeditated, the suspect could face life in prison or the death penalty under Arizona law.
• Second-Degree Murder – If the act was intentional but not premeditated, the suspect could face 10 to 25 years in prison.
• Manslaughter – If the shooting occurred during a heated argument, a conviction could result in up to 12.5 years in prison.

In addition, firearm-related charges could be added if the weapon was illegally obtained or improperly stored.

How to Get Help: Resources for Domestic Violence Survivors

Laborin’s tragic death highlights the urgent need for intervention and support for domestic violence victims. If you or someone you know is in an abusive relationship, help is available.

• National Domestic Violence Hotline: Call 1-800-799-7233 for confidential support.
• Arizona Coalition to End Domestic Violence: Visit www.acesdv.org for resources.
• Local Women’s Shelters: Many shelters provide emergency housing and legal assistance.

Domestic violence experts stress that leaving an abusive relationship is often the most dangerous time for a victim, making safety planning crucial.

Final Thoughts: Seeking Justice and Change

As Janice Laborin’s family prepares to lay her to rest, the Surprise, AZ, community continues to mourn her loss and demand justice.

Her story serves as a tragic reminder of the deadly consequences of domestic violence and the urgent need for better protections for victims.

The investigation remains ongoing, and authorities encourage anyone with information to contact the Surprise Police Department at (623)-222-4000.

For now, those who knew Janice Laborin remember her as a bright light extinguished far too soon—a victim of violence that could have been prevented.