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PD: North Phoenix pregnant woman shot and killed, baby survives

Posted at 10:47 AM, Oct 30, 2017
and last updated 2017-10-30 22:00:25-04

A pregnant woman in north Phoenix was shot and killed, but doctors were able to save her baby.

Phoenix police report early Sunday morning, 34-year-old Christopher Michael Kraft was involved in an argument with neighbors at his apartment complex near 19th Avenue and Union Hills Drive.

Police say the dispute escalated when threats were made to retrieve guns. Kraft reportedly went to his apartment to get his gun and was going to return to confront the others, when 23-year-old Jasmine Ponce attempted to stop him. Ponce reportedly grabbed Kraft and the gun discharged striking Ponce in the head.

"She was a very amazing person, intelligent young lady, and a great mom," said Vianey Lopez, Jasmine's relative.

Ponce who was 36 weeks pregnant, did not survive her injuries. Doctors, however, were able to safely deliver a baby boy, in good condition.

"She was the sweetest little girl growing up," Jasmine's aunt Lillian Morales said. "I'm feeling broken that her children have no momma." 

Kraft was arrested for second-degree murder and tampering with evidence as he reportedly tried to dispose of his handgun.

Kraft is being held on a $150,000 bond.

Jasmine's mom says the Arizona Department of Child Safety has protective custody of both children, and several relatives say they would be willing to raise them. 

A DCS spokesman declined to comment, citing privacy issues.

The family has set up a GoFundMe page to raise money for the Jasmine Ponce's funeral:

https://www.gofundme.com/x3rrnx-for-jasmine-ponce-funera