Police search for answers in Phoenix murder

PHOENIX (KSAZ) - Leon Hill says his friend Dustin Shirk was like a brother. A kind, generous man.

"Best guy you would meet, he would help anyone out, didn't matter who you were because that's just the type of guy he was," said Leon Hill.

The two grew up together sharing a house this past year. Dustin played football for Alhambra High School and served 4 years as a Lance Corporal Marine in Iraq. Leon says Dustin wanted to return to the Marines and went jogging to get back in shape late Monday night.

"I wish it was me and not him, because he was that good of a guy. he's the guy you'd risk your life for, because he helps everybody out," said Hill.

Just before 1 a.m. on Tuesday, police received several calls about gun shots at Cielito Park. There they found 30 year old Dustin Shirk with multiple gunshot wounds. He was rushed to the hospital and later pronounced dead.

"It still feels like a nightmare, and I wish it were a nightmare," said Hill.

Leon said Dustin loved the outdoors and his pets. He recently planted two fruit trees in their front yard. His entire family is grieving over the tremendous loss.

"He's a Marine, he helped save this country. Please help him get respect for what happened, and get rid of the bad guy who did this to him," said Hill.

Police haven't said if they have any leads in Dustin's death, or a suspect description. If you have any information, you're asked to call Silent Witness at 480-WITNESS.