Ysidro Cota, suspect in Gilbert shooting, lived with victim, family says

GILBERT, AZ - Family members tell ABC15 that a suspect in a Gilbert shooting Sunday lived and worked with the victim for a short while.

The deadly shooting happened just before 3 p.m. Sunday near Gilbert and Elliott roads, according to Gilbert police.

A man arrested in the incident was identified as 46-year-old Ysidro Cota of Mesa.

Police said 48-year-old Michael Kaftan of Mesa and 29-year-old Chantal Cassidy were in a parked car talking to a couple on a motorcycle.

Police weren’t sure what words were exchanged, but investigators said they believe the man on the motorcycle, Cota, started shooting into the car.

Kaftan then reportedly drove down the street to escape the gunfire and crashed into a carport of a nearby apartment complex.

Police said Kaftan died from the shots fired, and Cassidy was taken to a hospital with non-life threatening injuries from the car crash.

Kaftan’s wife and daughter talked to ABC15 and said Cota was troubled and stayed with them for a couple months.

"We took him Into our home to try and help him get on his feet when he lost his place to live. He needs God in a very serious way," Bev Kaftan said.

Kaftan’s wife also said Cota worked for Kaftan for a short while.

Cota was booked on charges of second degree murder, aggravated assault, and prohibited possessor of a firearm.

The woman who was with Cota on the back of the motorcycle has been missing and is considered a person of interest.

Police are still looking for witnesses in the case. If you know anything, you’re encouraged to contact police.