Glendale, Ariz. — The Camelback Academy Charter School community is grappling with profound grief following the death of Amanda Franco, a 21-year-old alumna and staff member. Franco was fatally wounded in a shooting incident near 35th Avenue and McDowell Road in Phoenix on March 30. The incident, described as a gun battle involving an estimated 300 shots, also left a teenage boy hospitalized, according to authorities.

Those who witness crimes or suspicious behavior can remain anonymous while reporting it to police.

A School’s Deep Roots

Camelback Academy, located near Camelback Road and 75th Avenue in Glendale, held a special place in Franco’s life. She attended the school from kindergarten through middle school and recently returned as an employee in late January. Her mother continues to work at the academy, and a younger sister is currently a student.

Karen Kordon, who founded Camelback Academy in 2002 and serves as its executive director, expressed the school’s shock and sorrow. I got the call Sunday morning from someone on my team, Kordon stated. It was just one of those things where you have no words. What do you say? The family ties here, they’re just really, really strong, whether it’s a blood relative or just people that grew up knowing each other.

Remembering amanda

The school acknowledged franco’s passing in an April 1 social media post, stating, Our hearts are heavy for Amanda’s friends and family, many of whom are also our team members here. The loss is particularly felt by those who knew her well.

Irma sebreros, Franco’s mother, has been the school’s registrar for approximately 18 years. An aunt and a cousin also work at Camelback Academy,further illustrating the family’s deep connection to the institution.

Serena Villalobos, the lead coach and student mentor, remembers Franco fondly. She was a very kind, loving woman, Villalobos said, adding that education was huge to her. Villalobos had known Franco since she was a second-grader and witnessed her grow into a dedicated young woman.

As a student, Franco excelled academically, making the honor roll and participating in club basketball. she graduated from copper Canyon High School and pursued a career in health,demonstrating her commitment to helping others.

A Promising Future Cut Short

Kordon recalled Franco’s enthusiasm for her new role at the school. We would always see her around, as her mom worked here, and then she came back. we were so excited to have her part of our team,and she was doing such a good job, Kordon said. She just stepped right in and was such a professional, really cared for the kids.

Students have honored Franco’s memory by writing letters and creating cards.A vigil was held,bringing together former classmates and colleagues to mourn her untimely death.

Community Support

To assist with funeral expenses,Sebreros established a GoFundMe page, seeking to raise $16,000.as of early April, the campaign had reached approximately half of its goal, demonstrating the community’s support for the family.

Franco’s family described her as a vibrant, kind, and loving young woman whose life was cut far too short. They added, She was more than a daughter, sister, and friend — she was a light in the lives of everyone who knew her. Her infectious smile, caring nature, and unwavering support for those around her will be deeply missed.

A lasting Impression

Villalobos emphasized that Franco was on the right path and considered Camelback Academy my spot.

Kordon shared a poignant final memory of Franco:

Amanda was a very quiet girl. She was kind of stoic and didn’t show a lot of emotion. Last Thursday she and her mom and I were actually walking out of the office through the same door simultaneously occurring.It was this seemingly silly kind of moment, but I remember she broke out in this big smile and laughed. I just thought, ‘Aha, I broke through. I broke through Amanda’s quiet exterior.’

Police Investigation

The Phoenix Police Department is actively investigating the shooting and urges anyone with information, including video footage, to come forward. Authorities have released limited details about the circumstances leading to the violence.