Shivangi Sinha
In late August and early September 2015, Phoenix, Arizona, experienced a series of freeway shootings, primarily along Interstate 10. Eleven vehicles were struck by bullets or projectiles over several days, causing widespread fear among commuters. The incidents were described by authorities as acts of “domestic terrorism.” In September 2015, Leslie Allen Merritt Jr. was arrested and charged in connection with four of the shootings. However, Merritt consistently maintained his innocence. A&E’s ‘Accused: Did I Do It?’ episode titled ‘Freeway Shooter or Innocent Father?’ delves into the case, examining the evidence presented and the defense’s arguments.
Leslie Merritt Jr. Was Wrongly Arrested For a Series of Shootings in Arizona
At the age of 21, Leslie Allen Merritt Jr. was residing in Phoenix, Arizona, with his fiancée and their two young children. Life was unfolding typically for the young father, who was cherishing the early milestones of his 5-month-old daughter. His parents, Leslie Sr. and Georgette Merritt, lived close by and created a support system that gave his growing family stability, but everything changed on September 18, 2015. As Leslie exited a store after cashing his paycheck, he was suddenly surrounded by multiple police vehicles carrying members of the SWAT team. Without warning, he was detained and transported for questioning. Authorities informed him that he was under suspicion for involvement in a string of highway attacks. It was a series of shootings that had taken place between late August and early September along I-10 and SR-202 in the Phoenix area.
During questioning, investigators informed Leslie that the firearm linked to the initial four freeway shootings was a Hi-Point 9mm model. After checking records at local pawn shops, authorities claimed that one such gun had previously been pawned by Leslie and alleged that ballistic tests matched it to the bullets fired during the attacks. Leslie, however, maintained that he had no involvement in the incidents and insisted he was with his fiancée at the time. Initially, she confirmed his alibi in her interview, but after being warned she could face terrorism-related charges herself, she retracted her statement and said she couldn’t confirm his whereabouts on August 29. Leslie was subsequently charged with 15 felony counts, including drive-by shooting, aggravated assault, illegal discharge of a firearm, disorderly conduct, and endangerment. His bail was set at $1 million, and he was placed in solitary confinement.
Leslie’s legal team questioned the pawn shop owner, who confirmed that Leslie had sold his Hi-Point 9mm firearm on August 30, just after 5 pm. This was allegedly before the fourth freeway shooting had occurred. The defense argued that this timeline disqualified him from being the shooter and should warrant his release. However, during a hearing, the prosecution challenged this argument by stating that the fourth shooting happened at a time that would still allow Leslie to be involved. As a result, he remained in custody for 222 days, including three months in solitary confinement. It wasn’t until a pre-trial hearing in April 2016 that the defense presented a forensic expert’s analysis, which contradicted the state’s original ballistic findings. The expert concluded that the gun in question could not be conclusively linked to the shootings. With the evidence deemed unreliable and insufficient, all charges against Leslie were ultimately dropped.
Leslie Merritt Jr. Sought Compensation For the Ordeal He Had Been Put Through
The aftermath of Leslie Merritt Jr.’s release was marked by significant personal and emotional challenges. He spoke openly about experiencing PTSD and anxiety, making it difficult for him to readjust to normal life. His relationship with his fiancée fell apart, and in 2018, he filed a civil lawsuit against state officials, seeking justice for his wrongful arrest and imprisonment. Although the case went to trial in 2020, the court initially ruled against him. Undeterred, Leslie appealed the decision—first in April 2021, and again in 2022. Eventually, he was awarded $1 million in compensation. In July 2024, he also filed a defamation lawsuit against former Department of Public Safety Director Frank Milstead, who had publicly labeled him the correct suspect in the freeway shootings. Details of this lawsuit have not been made public, and it is believed that the matter may have been settled privately.
Leslie Merritt Jr. is a Devoted Father to Six Children Today
Leslie Merritt found a fresh start when he married Courtney Merritt on April 10, 2022. The couple has since welcomed four more children, making their blended family a bustling household of six kids. They now live on the outskirts of Phoenix, Arizona, where life is quieter and more grounded. Leslie has channeled his energy into building a stable future and works in the construction industry. It is a field where he’s not only found steady employment but also earned the respect of his colleagues and boss. Those close to him say he is dependable and hardworking, someone who shows up and gives his best every single day.
Despite the trauma of his past, Leslie has carved out a life centered on peace and family. His greatest joy comes from spending time with his children, whether it’s at home, in the backyard, or helping with schoolwork. He’s committed to providing them with the security and love he once struggled to find for himself. Family, above all, remains his anchor and motivation.
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