The Arizona District Attorney's Office is seeking the death penalty for the main suspect in the case, Zion Teasley. Lauren Heike murder case.
Maricopa County Attorney's Office (MCAO) confirmed the news in an email to Fox News Digital on Saturday.
Teasley, 23, pleaded not guilty to murder in May. He was charged with a single count of first-degree murder.
Heike, 29, was stabbed to death on April 28 on a trail in northwest Phoenix near his home. She had about 15 stab wounds to her hands and forearms, authorities said.
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Based on evidence obtained at the scene, investigators believe she was chased over a barbed wire fence. Her belongings were scattered at the scene.
Teasley was arrested after police discovered surveillance cameras, cell phone evidence and DNA evidence linked to the crime.
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In a statement Friday shared with Fox News Digital, Heike's family said they supported the MCAO's decision and were “grateful.”
“We know that our journey through the criminal justice system is just beginning, but we will work with Lauren every step of the way to ensure she receives justice,” the letter said. “As we walk down the road through the first Christmas season Without Lauren, our hearts continue to break that her life was cut short by the violent acts of others. ”
“However, we want Lauren to be remembered as a beautiful and kind person,” the statement added. “We are filled with hope and joy knowing that we will one day be reunited with Lauren. We ask for your prayers and privacy at this time.”
Fox News Digital's Stephen Sorace and Greg Wehner contributed to this report.
Original article source: Murder of Lauren Heike: Maricopa County Attorney's Office seeks death penalty for Zion Teasley
