Phoenix police say a disturbing sequence of events unfolded in a quiet Arizona neighborhood after an 18-year-old allegedly killed his neighbor and continued living in the man’s home for nearly two weeks before being discovered.
Xzavion Johnson, 18, was arrested Monday by the Phoenix Police Department and charged with murder and burglary in connection with the death of 57-year-old David Jimenez. Authorities say Johnson remained inside Jimenez’s house after the killing, using the victim’s belongings and drawing little attention until concerns from neighbors and family prompted a welfare check.
According to a police press release, officers were called to Jimenez’s Phoenix home after neighbors reported they had not seen him for some time but believed someone else was occupying the residence. The situation raised further alarm when Johnson’s mother told investigators she had not seen her son since late December 2025.
Court documents reveal that Johnson’s mother went to check on Jimenez and noticed a package on the front porch addressed to her son. She also reported a strong odor coming from the backyard.
When officers arrived, they entered the backyard and found Jimenez’s body “in advanced stages of decomposition.” Police said Johnson was inside the home at the time. After barricading himself for an “extended” period, he eventually exited the house and was taken into custody without further incident.
During a police interview, Johnson allegedly admitted that he went to Jimenez’s home on Dec. 29, 2025, intending to rob him. Investigators say he told officers he was carrying a gun he had stolen about 10 days earlier. According to his statement, Johnson noticed an open side gate, entered the property, and was seen by Jimenez. He then allegedly opened fire, killing the older man.
Police say Johnson covered the body with blankets and then moved into the house. Court documents state that he used Jimenez’s credit cards, drove his vehicle, and even ordered packages to the home using the neighbor’s address.
Jimenez, described by authorities as a recently retired VA nurse, had family living in New Mexico. Johnson’s mother told police she was unaware of any prior relationship between her son and Jimenez.
Johnson was booked into the Maricopa County Jail on “multiple” charges, including murder and burglary. He is currently being held on a $1 million cash bond as the investigation continues.
