Hundreds of Phoenix-area residents turned up for a public meeting Wednesday in search of information and answers on the so-called "Baseline Killer" and a serial shooter that has many Valley residents on edge.
The residents filled up three rooms at Linda Loma Elementary School at 20th Street and Indian School Road in central Phoenix where most of the crimes have reportedly taken place.
Yet many residents went into the meeting knowing that investigators recently linked the Baseline Killer to the rape and murder of 19-year-old Georgia Thompson in Tempe last September. Thompson had been killed in the Saddle Club Apartment Homes near Mill and Southern avenues.
This recent discovery has some in the ASU community concerned.
"It is a little close to home," business administration alumna Kristina Garcia said. Garcia lives on Baseline Road and Priest Drive, just minutes away from where Thompson was killed.
But officers downplayed such fears.
"I don't think female students in Tempe should be especially concerned, but there are some extra steps of caution that everyone should take," Phoenix Chief Officer Jim Pina said.
"As a female student, I would want to be aware of my surroundings at all times," he said.
Pina added that increasing security at campuses like the ASU downtown campus is not imminent.
"We're still a long ways off from needing heightened security," he said.
During the meeting, Pina suggested residents carry on their normal everyday activities.
"We are not going to let this rapist and shooter dictate how we lead our lives," he said.
Tempe police spokesman Sgt. Dan Masters agreed that Tempe students do not need to be especially alarmed.
"Just use extra caution," Masters said. "These crimes are happening within late night hours, so students should travel with others at night if possible."
Masters added that most of the investigation is still being handled through the Phoenix Police Department.
Last week, Phoenix Mayor Phil Gordon announced a $100,000 reward for anyone who could provide information leading to the serial rapist or shooter.
Pina said after the reward was announced, the silent witness line received over 1,000 tips in one evening.
"If you see anything suspicious, please call the police department," Pina said at the meeting.
"There's always the risk that [the serial killer] realizes he's too hot in this area and go somewhere else," he said. "The area is widening."
Suspect James Dewayne Mullins, 33, had confessed to Thompson's murder only to recant his confession Thursday after the discovery of forensic evidence linking the Baseline rapist to Thompson's death. Investigators suggest Dewayne may still have information that could lead police to the Baseline Killer.
Police are requesting that anyone with information contact (480) 948-6377.
"Baseline Killer" incidents that occurred in Tempe
Sept. 28,2005 | 1424 W. BASELINE RD | Robbery
Sept. 8, 2005 | 3730 S. MILL AVE TEMPE | Homicide
Reach the reporter at lily.yan@asu.edu.
