A second suspect has been arrested in connection with the tragic triple homicide and arson case that occurred in the Ahwatukee area of southeast Phoenix. The incident, which took place on July 15, has shocked the local community.
Arrest of Dorian Rice
Phoenix police announced the arrest of Dorian Rice, 53, on Tuesday. He has been booked into jail on suspicion of first-degree felony murder and armed robbery. As of now, Rice does not have legal representation for his case.
Previous Arrest of Chase Christman
This arrest follows the earlier apprehension of Chase Christman, 30, who was taken into custody last Friday. Christman faces charges of three counts of murder and one count of misconduct involving weapons. His bond has been set at $5 million, and he is currently awaiting his initial court appearance. Efforts to contact his public defender for comment were made on Wednesday.
Details of the Crime
According to Phoenix police spokesman Sgt. Robert Scherer, Rice has confessed to driving Christman to the apartment with the intent to rob the victims. Rice also admitted to transporting Christman away from the scene following the killings.
Identification of Victims
The victims have been identified as Merissa Honeycutt, 27; Anthony Frederickson-Ceccarelli, 25; and Samuel Lott, 37. Their bodies were discovered in a second-floor bedroom of the three-level apartment complex in Ahwatukee, located approximately 13 miles southeast of Phoenix.
Investigation and Cause of Death
Authorities reported that all three victims exhibited signs of trauma unrelated to the fire, which is suspected to have been set to obscure the murders. The exact cause of death for the victims has not yet been disclosed by officials. The investigation into the case continues as the community seeks answers and justice for the victims.
