Police search for missing man
The Glendale Police Department is looking for James Olen Waibel. Waibel is a 52-year-old male, 5'11", 240 pounds, who is bald with green eyes.
Waibel goes by Jim, and was last seen around 9 a.m. Oct. 24, leaving the area of his home, 15000 N. 61st Drive, in his vehicle. He was last seen wearing a white T-shirt with the word "Fiesta" on it, black gym shorts, and white tennis shoes, which are a Costco/Kirkland brand. His vehicle is a 2003 grey Chevrolet ¾ ton pick-up, four-door, 4x4, Arizona license plate CC42603.
Police said the issue of his disappearance is out of character, and he has not contacted any family or friends in more than two weeks. If anyone has any information, or believe they may have seen him, contact Glendale Police Department Detective Sanchez at 623-930-3000.
Police respond to school burglary
At approximately 10:52 p.m., Nov. 13, a Glendale Elementary School District employee responded to Bicentennial North School, 7237 W. Missouri Ave., after being alerted by an alarm notification. Upon arrival, the employee heard a loud banging from one of the buildings and notified the Glendale Police Department. A perimeter was established, but K9 units and Phoenix Airship coordinated efforts failed to locate the suspect or suspects. There was no damage to the school and none of the numerous computers and equipment was damaged or stolen.
Police arrest shooter in domestic violence assault
At approximately 5:08 p.m., Nov. 12, officers responded to an apartment complex on 59th Lane and Northern Avenue, in reference to a report of shots being fired. Upon arrival, officers learned that an adult male suspect had an earlier altercation with the victim. The suspect returned to the victim's apartment hours later. The suspect knocked on the victim's door, the victim saw the gun, and immediately closed the door. Just after the door was shut, a shot was fired, which came through the metal door. Officers were able to identify the suspect and locate him a short time later. Suspect, 52-year-old Tony Curtis, was taken into custody without incident. No one was struck by the gunshot.
Police arrest man for DUI and drug possession
At approximately 4:15 p.m. Nov. 11, officers responded to Cabela's, 9380 W. Glendale Ave., in reference to a private property traffic collision. Preliminary investigation revealed that an adult male was traveling east on a private road in his car, through the parking lot, when he collided into a boat, which was on display in front of the store. The boat and property sustained major damage in excess of $40,000. The driver was subsequently found to be under the influence of drugs, as well as being in possession of the dangerous drugs. The suspect, Gabriel C. Jarigue, was transported to the Glendale Jail, where he was booked.
Couple and pets perish in home fire
Glendale Police responded to a house fire at 10:20 a.m. Nov. 9 in the 12000 block on North 62nd Drive. A neighbor had called to report the house across the street was on fire.
Patrol officers assisted the Glendale Fire Department. During the fire fighting, two victims were found inside the residence. Life-saving techniques were attempted, but neither survived.
The victims that perished in the fire were 52-year-old Deborah Lopes, her husband, 55-year-old Glenn Lopes, and the couple's three dogs.
The pair succumbed to apparent smoke and carbon monoxide inhalation during the fire. Through a cooperative investigation by Glendale fire and police personnel, it is apparent the fire was accidental. There is an indication the likely ignition source was a lighted cigarette. There is no obvious foul play.