In a significant development, Maricopa County Attorney Rachel Mitchell, in collaboration with Queen Creek police officials, announced on Wednesday a series of indictments linked to the tragic death of 16-year-old Preston Lord. The investigation has resulted in the indictment of four individuals in connection to the murder of Preston Lord.
Preston Lord Update
During the press conference, Mitchell revealed that the Maricopa County grand jury had indicted Talan Renner, Dominic Turner, Talyn Vigil, and William Hines for their alleged involvement in Preston Lord’s murder.
Despite some of the accused being under the age of 18, officials have decided to charge all four as adults. The charges include first-degree felony murder and kidnapping, with Dominic Turner facing an additional charge of aggravated robbery.
Queen Creek officials swiftly executed arrest warrants on Wednesday morning, leading to the apprehension of the indicted individuals. However, Mitchell emphasized, “This investigation and review are not over.”
Four Indicted in Connection to Preston Lord’s Death
Following the press conference, Gilbert Police Department Chief Michael Soelberg provided additional insights into the ongoing teen violence investigations. Chief Soelberg disclosed that William Hines has three pending aggravated assault cases, including one related to an aggravated assault DUI arrest.
Two other cases, undisclosed until December 2023 and January 2024, are currently pending with the Maricopa County Superior Court. Dominic Turner, on the other hand, has one documented incident—an unrelated 2023 traffic collision—according to Gilbert police. Chief Soelberg clarified that there are no other reported involvements for Turner.
Chief Soelberg underscored the significance of the recent indictments, stating, “Today’s indictment represents one more step in bringing justice to the Lord family.”
Statements from Preston Lord’s Family
Preston Lord’s family expressed gratitude towards community members and law enforcement for their collaborative efforts leading to the arrests. The legal representation for Preston Lord’s parents, Nick Lord and Autumn Curiel, stated, “Each arrest represents a step towards accountability and justice for our son Preston.”
Melissa Lord, Preston’s aunt, commented on the indictments, saying, “Today is the day I have prayed for. I pray now our hearts can start to properly start to grieve knowing the boys responsible for murdering my nephew are going to be held accountable.”
The Attack and Investigation Timeline
Preston Lord’s assault occurred at a Halloween party near 194th Street and Via del Oro in Queen Creek on October 28. He was taken to a hospital but tragically succumbed to his injuries two days later. The medical examiner recently officially declared his death a homicide.
Queen Creek Police Department identified multiple “persons of interest” in November, recommending charges against seven individuals in December. The case remains under review by the Maricopa County Attorney.
Officials have released a photo of a vehicle believed to be a witness to another incident near the assault area, urging the person to come forward with any information.
Wider Investigations and Community Concern
Preston Lord’s death brought attention to a series of attacks on teenagers in the East Valley, prompting multiple police agencies to initiate or reopen violence-related cases. The East Valley community has expressed concerns and frustration, with “Light the Night” events held in Lord’s memory.
In January, Queen Creek Police Chief Randy Brice assured accountability and arrests in Lord’s case. However, the community continues to demand action amid ongoing teen violence investigations. Lord’s father, Nick, stated, “Action and change are imperative,” emphasizing the need for a collective community effort to prevent further tragedies.
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