Washington – The U.S. Marshals Service today announced the addition of a suspected attempted murderer and violent gang member to their 15 Most Wanted fugitive list.
Cameron Leezell Taylor, a documented member of a Phoenix-based criminal street gang, is wanted in Arizona by the Phoenix Police Department on four counts of attempted murder, four counts of aggravated assault, endangerment, assisting a criminal street gang and a drive-by shooting. Taylor is also wanted by the U.S. Marshals Service District of Arizona for unlawful flight to avoid prosecution.
On March 23, 2009, Taylor, along with two other gang members, allegedly drove through a south Phoenix neighborhood in an attempt to locate and murder rival gang members including a pregnant female. Later that day, the group located a vehicle containing the targeted gang members. However, there was another vehicle between them, driven by Gilbert Leon. Taylor, and two other gang members, allegedly opened fire at the target vehicle, striking it numerous times. In the process, Leon was struck by a stray bullet and instantly died. One of the targeted individuals was struck in the back and a stray bullet struck another passing vehicle. At the time of the shooting, Leon was returning home from visiting his parents and spending time with his nephew.
“Cameron Taylor is the reason a national 15 Most Wanted list was created by the U.S. Marshals Service,” said David P. Gonzales, U.S. Marshal for the District of Arizona. “Taylor’s contempt for social values and human life has resulted in him now being one of America’s most wanted fugitives.”
Taylor, 26, poses an extreme threat to the community and should be considered armed and dangerous. The two other gang members involved in the shooting have since been arrested and convicted for the crime.
“Through his alleged crimes, Cameron Taylor demonstrated a clear disregard for innocent bystanders that presents an immediate danger to society,” said William D. Snelson, Assistant Director for Investigative Operations. “This most recent incident earned him the full attention of the United States Marshals Service. We are committed to locating and apprehending this violent gang member. Taylor will not elude the long arm of the law.”
A reward of up to $25,000 is offered for information leading directly to Taylor’s arrest. Anyone with information is urged to contact the nearest U.S. Marshals office or the U.S. Marshals Service Communications Center at 1-800-336-0102.
