Lauren Heike's family said they have been notified that the Maricopa County Attorney's Office is seeking the death penalty against the man accused of killing her.
Heike, 29, was found dead by Phoenix police on April 28 in a desert area near 64th Street and Mayo Boulevard after a resident reported seeing an injured person near a hiking trail. .
Police said her body showed signs of trauma and was found in a hard-to-see spot on the trail, indicating she was attacked from behind while hiking.
Zion William Teasley, 22, was charged with first-degree murder shortly thereafter. Now he could face the death penalty.
Lauren Heike's parents, Jeff and Lana Heike, said as much in a statement Friday through Arizona Crime Victim Voices.
“Late this afternoon, we received word that the Maricopa County Attorney's Office has filed a Notice of Intent to Seek the Death Penalty for Lauren's Murder,” the statement read. “Our family supports the MCAO's decision and appreciates the work of both the MCAO and the Phoenix Police Department. We know that our journey through the criminal justice system has only just begun. “We will work with Lauren every step of the way to ensure she benefits.” “
Heike's family said their daughter was kind to everyone she met and that they sometimes worried that she was too trusting. Now they want her to receive the justice she deserves and her memory to be honored.
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“As we go through our first Christmas season without Lauren, our hearts continue to break that her life was cut short by the violent act of another,” the statement read. “However, we want Lauren to be remembered as a beautiful and kind person. We are hopeful and rejoice in knowing that we will be reunited with Lauren one day. At this time We ask for your prayers and privacy.”
