Maricopa County Attorney Addresses Complexities in San Tan Valley Teen's Death

Maricopa County Attorney Rachel Mitchell addressed the ongoing investigation into the death of Preston Lord, a 16-year-old from San Tan Valley, during a press conference. Lord was fatally beaten at a Queen Creek house party on October 28 and succumbed to his injuries two days later.

The complexity of the case, involving multiple suspects and an abundance of evidence, has delayed arrests and charges. Mitchell explained the distinction between a jail submittal, applicable for fewer suspects, and a basket submittal, like in this case, which allows for more thorough review before charges are filed.

Mitchell highlighted the volume of evidence, including over 2,000 pages of police reports and 600 video files, all requiring detailed examination by senior homicide prosecutors. This meticulous process is necessary to ensure that contradicting evidence is also considered, ensuring a comprehensive and accurate case. Mitchell refrained from providing a timeline for arrests or specifying potential charges, emphasizing the importance of accuracy over speed in the pursuit of justice.

The involvement of a group known as the "Gilbert Goons" was acknowledged, but Mitchell downplayed the focus on the group's name, emphasizing instead the actions and evidence against the individuals involved. She reassured that her extensive experience as a prosecutor guides the case's progression and warned the perpetrators not to underestimate the thoroughness of the investigation.

Gilbert Police Arrest Three in Assault Case Amid Rising Concerns Over Teen Violence

On January 10, the Gilbert Police Department announced the arrest of three additional suspects in connection with a robbery and assault incident that occurred in August at the intersection of Williams Field Road and Market Street. The newly arrested individuals include Aris Arredondo, an 18-year-old, and two 16-year-olds, all charged with aggravated robbery and aggravated assault. These arrests follow the earlier apprehension of Christopher Fantastic, another 18-year-old, on the evening of January 9.

The two juveniles have been referred to the Maricopa County Juvenile Court system. Gilbert Police emphasize that their investigation remains active and ongoing as they seek to identify further individuals involved in the incident. This case is being treated as independent of the Queen Creek investigation into the death of Preston Lord.

The recent arrests are notably linked to heightened community concerns about teen violence, which led to the formation of a subcommittee by the Gilbert Town Council on January 9. The subcommittee aims to address and study the rising issue of violence among teens following Lord's death and other similar incidents in the area. The Gilbert Police Department expressed gratitude to the community for their assistance in identifying the suspects and committed to providing ongoing updates as the investigation progresses.

Friends For Life Animal Rescue Looking For Item Donations and Shoppers

Donations Needed as Car Crash Adds to Financial Woes of Gilbert's Beloved Peacock Wine & Book Bar

Julia Wallace, the owner of Peacock Wine & Book Bar in Gilbert, faced a severe setback when a car crashed into her business just before New Year's Day weekend, compounding financial challenges already present due to the pandemic.

Previously, Wallace had launched a GoFundMe campaign to raise $150,000 to keep her passion project afloat. The accident at 1525 N. Gilbert Road caused no injuries but added to the bar's financial strain. Wallace reopened the bar quickly after the incident but acknowledged the significant revenue loss due to the accident.

Gilbert Police reported the crash, caused by a 21-year-old driver mistaking the accelerator for the brake, didn't result in injuries or severe structural damage. Despite having insurance, Wallace noted it did not cover all costs, including loss of wages for staff. The GoFundMe campaign has raised a fraction of the desired amount.

Opened in August 2019, Peacock Wine & Book Bar offers a selection of wines, craft beers, small bites, books, and gifts, along with a wine club membership. Wallace, who has a background in psychology and worked with children with special needs, ventured into this business seeking to create an atmospheric wine bar reminiscent of those in major cities. The bar, which also houses “Literally, A Bookshop”, has struggled since the pandemic but has remained a community staple, hosting author signings and book fundraisers.

Wallace, a Gilbert Chamber of Commerce ambassador and active community member, continues to brainstorm ways to reinvent and raise the profile of her establishment. Her efforts include extending operation hours and introducing craft classes.

Help Keep Peacock Wine & Book Bar Thriving: https://www.gofundme.com/f/k7aa6k

We could use your help

We’ve got big plans as we get up to speed! But we need your help!

One huge way that you can help us is to spread the word for us.

Know somebody who lives in the Gilbert Area and would benefit from being kept in the know?

Please share Gilbert Thrive with them! It’s simple! 👇👇👇