Key Highlights
- TJ Pizzitola, 29, was killed after being punched from behind in Old Town Scottsdale.
- The attack occurred on the evening of October 11th; Pizzitola was one month away from becoming a father.
- Five suspects have been arrested for their involvement in the assault, including one man charged with second-degree murder.
- Pizzitola’s family and community are rallying to support his pregnant wife Krisan as they prepare to welcome their first child named TJ Pizzitola.
Tragic Death of TJ Pizzitola
TJ Pizzitola, 29, was a beloved son, husband, and soon-to-be father who had his life tragically cut short on October 11th. His murder occurred in Old Town Scottsdale when he was attacked from behind by one of five suspects, all currently facing charges related to the assault.
According to police reports, TJ Pizzitola was walking with two friends near Pattie’s First Avenue Lounge around 2 a.m. when an altercation reportedly began between his group and another woman who had been drinking at the bar. As they tried to leave after a minor incident involving bumping into each other, one of the suspects, identified as 24-year-old Drew Meneses, struck TJ Pizzitola with a punch that rendered him unconscious.
Family’s Grief and Hope
TJ Pizzitola’s family is deeply affected by his sudden death. His mother, Gina Pizzitola, recalls her son as a friendly child who greeted everyone at the grocery store. “He was the type of man that loved so deep that you could feel it,” Krisan Pizzitola, TJ’s wife, expressed. Krisan and their unborn child are now coping with an unimaginable loss; Krisan is eight months pregnant with their first child, whom they plan to name TJ in honor of his father.
“TJ never missed an OB-GYN appointment,” Krisan Pizzitola emphasized, highlighting the depth of his commitment as a future parent. “He wanted to be a dad more than anything. His biggest dream was to be a dad and a husband, and he had one of them.”
Community Response and Support
The community in Scottsdale is rallying around TJ Pizzitola’s family during this difficult time. A fundraiser has been set up to provide financial support for Krisan and their unborn child. Additionally, there will be a community event on November 16th at The 44 Sports Grill in Glendale to further aid the family.
“He’s got a heck of a village that is determined to let him know who his dad was,” Krisan Pizzitola stated, speaking about the support from friends and neighbors. “It makes me angry because it truly was the one thing that he wanted and he was so excited about.” The community’s response underscores the deep emotional impact such an incident can have on a close-knit neighborhood.
Charges Against Suspects
The suspects involved in this tragic event include 24-year-old Drew Meneses, who is facing charges of second-degree murder and aggravated assault. The other suspects are:
- 27-year-old Julius Husser – Aggravated assault, assault
- 26-year-old Tony Becker – Aggravated assault, assault
- 23-year-old Mark Whitford – Aggravated assault
- 27-year-old Krista Molina – Assault, disorderly conduct
The charges against these individuals reflect the severity of the attack and the impact it had on TJ Pizzitola’s life. The case highlights the importance of community vigilance and the need for responsible behavior in public spaces.
