PHOENIX — The man accused of murdering Lauren Heike in north Phoenix pleaded 'not guilty' during his Tuesday morning court hearing.
Heike was found with 15 stab wounds and torn clothing indicating she was chased over or through a nearby barbed wire fence on a hiking trail near Libby Street and 66th Way on April 29, the Phoenix Police Department said.
Police arrested 22-year-old Zion William Teasley on suspicion of killing Heike almost a week later on May 4.
A county grand jury indicted Teasley with one count of first-degree murder on Monday.
RELATED: Maricopa County attorney reviewing murder suspect's prior plea deal after Lauren Heike's death
“My heart goes out to the victim’s family and the pain they are experiencing losing their loved one in this manner,” said County Attorney Rachel Mitchell. “Our office will work diligently to seek justice for Lauren and her family.”
Further court hearings are scheduled for later in July.
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