Murder victim Jose Ruiz's family asks for public's help in finding killer

PHOENIX - The family of an 18-year-old shot in a robbery outside a Phoenix cell phone store is asking for the public's help in finding his killer.

Police are still looking for any leads in the murder of 18-year-old Jose Ruiz.

Ruiz was shot and killed during an armed robbery at the Boost Mobile store where he worked at 51st Avenue and Southern.

"I can't believe he's gone. Whoever did this took a piece of me forever," said Gabriela Ruiz, Jose's sister.

Police said a customer went into the business, saw the lights were on, the door was open, but no one was inside. She called the cops. When police came, they found Ruiz shot to death behind the counter. Police said items were missing from the store.

"This is just a sad case. This kid had such a good future ahead of him. We will do anything to give this family closure," said Phoenix Police Chief Daniel Garcia.

An account has been set up by the family to help with funeral costs. It is at Chase Bank, in his sister's name, Maria Ruiz. The account number is 951197599.

Anyone who was in the area at the time is encouraged to call police at 602-262-6141 or Silent Witness at 480-WITNESS to remain anonymous.