Twenty years have passed since the tragic killing of a young Phoenix performer, yet the search for justice continues. Maurice Dupree Green, who also used the name Melissa, was fatally shot in March 2006 while walking near 35th Avenue and Glenrosa Avenue. Despite years of investigation, no arrests have been made. Now, Maurice’s family, alongside investigators, is once again urging the public to come forward with information, backed by a $7,000 reward for tips that lead to an arrest.
Appeal
The family of Maurice Dupree Green has never stopped searching for answers. This week, they joined Phoenix detectives in renewing a public appeal for information related to the unsolved homicide.
To encourage new leads, the family and Silent Witness are offering a combined $7,000 reward. Investigators believe that even after two decades, someone may know what happened and could provide the crucial information needed to solve the case.
Phoenix police continue to classify the investigation as an active cold case, emphasizing that no piece of information is too small to be helpful.
Victim
Maurice Dupree Green was known for a vibrant personality and dreams of making a name in entertainment. Friends and family remember Maurice as an aspiring singer and actor with remarkable talent.
Maurice sometimes presented as a woman and also went by the name Melissa. Loved ones say Maurice embraced creativity and was well known in parts of Phoenix’s performing arts and LGBTQ+ communities.
Marcus Bellamy, Maurice’s sibling, has repeatedly expressed the family’s determination to find justice, saying Maurice had the potential for a bright future that was tragically cut short.
Incident
According to Phoenix police, the shooting occurred on March 21, 2006, near the intersection of 35th Avenue and Glenrosa Avenue.
Authorities identified the investigation as Case #2006-568. Despite extensive efforts over the years, detectives have not announced any arrests.
The case remains open, and investigators continue reviewing tips whenever new information becomes available.
Suspects
Police have released limited descriptions of the individuals believed to be involved in the crime.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Incident Date | March 21, 2006 |
| Location | 35th Avenue and Glenrosa Avenue, Phoenix |
| Case Number | #2006-568 |
| Reward | $7,000 |
| Primary Suspect | Hispanic male, approximately 18-20 years old, shaved head |
| Second Individual | Allegedly provided a bicycle for the suspect’s escape |
Investigators believe a second male assisted the suspected shooter by supplying a bicycle that was used to flee the area following the shooting.
Investigation
Although the case has remained unsolved for nearly twenty years, Phoenix detectives continue pursuing every possible lead.
Officials have used cold case awareness campaigns, including social media outreach, to keep the investigation in the public eye. They hope renewed attention will encourage witnesses who may have remained silent in the past to finally come forward.
Detectives believe advancements in investigative methods and increased public awareness may help uncover new evidence.
Motive
The exact motive behind the shooting remains unknown.
Family members and advocates have questioned whether Maurice’s gender presentation may have played a role in the attack. However, investigators say there is currently insufficient evidence to determine whether the crime was motivated by bias.
Detective Charlee McDermott explained that proving a bias-related motive can be extremely difficult without clear supporting evidence, leaving investigators unable to draw a definitive conclusion.
Support
Authorities continue asking anyone with information about the case to contact Silent Witness.
Tips can be submitted anonymously by calling 480-WITNESS (480-948-6377) or the Spanish-language line at 480-TESTIGO (480-837-8446). Anonymous online submissions are also accepted through the Silent Witness website.
Investigators stress that even information that may seem insignificant could be the missing piece needed to solve the case and finally bring closure to Maurice’s family.
The search for justice in Maurice Dupree Green’s death has lasted nearly two decades, but hope remains alive. With renewed public attention, an increased reward, and continued support from family and investigators, there is optimism that someone with critical information will step forward. Solving the case would not only provide long-awaited answers for loved ones but also honor the memory of a talented young person whose life ended far too soon.
FAQs
Who was Maurice Dupree Green?
A Phoenix performer also known as Melissa.
When did the shooting happen?
March 21, 2006.
How much is the reward?
A combined reward of $7,000.
Has anyone been arrested?
No arrests have been announced.
How can people submit tips?
Through Silent Witness by phone or online.
