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Man accused of killing 4 family members in Casa Grande area

When deputies arrived at the home, they found four people had been reportedly murdered by a member of their family, 21-year-old Richard Wilson.

CASA GRANDE, Ariz. — A 21-year-old man is behind bars, accused of murdering four members of his own family, authorities said Monday.

The Pinal County Sheriff's Office said Sunday, around 1:45 p.m., deputies received a frantic 911 call from a home near Rosemead Drive and Bel Air Road, just outside of Casa Grande. 

Officials said when deputies arrived, they discovered four people had been reportedly murdered in the home by a member of their family, 21-year-old Richard Wilson IV.

Credit: 12News

PCSO identified the victims as 47-year-old Richard Wilson, the suspect's father, 50 -year-old Ellen Otterman, the suspect's mother, 16-year-old Rudy Wilson, the suspect's sister, and 5-year-old Renaya White, the suspect's niece. Authorities believe Wilson used a knife to kill all four victims.

PCSO said Wilson was still on scene when deputies arrived and was arrested. Authorities said Wilson has been booked into the Pinal County Jail on four counts of first-degree murder and is being held on a $2.5 million bond.

"Yesterday, a terrible tragedy hit our community," said Sheriff Mark Lamb.

"This act of depraved violence will have long-lasting effects on all those who knew this family," said Lamb. "While nothing will bring their loved ones back, I send my prayers and support to everyone affected."

The Casa Grande Elementary School District confirmed Monday that two of the victims were a student and a staff member. The district said counselors will be on site this week to support students and staff who may need someone with whom to talk.

Dear CGESD Families, It is with a heavy heart that I inform you a student and staff member were tragically killed over...

Posted by Casa Grande Elementary School District on Monday, September 5, 2022

12News has learned Wilson has had several interactions with the Pinal County Sheriff’s Office in the past.

There have been at least ten calls for service involving Wilson since 2019, including assault and a drug offense, and most recently, on July 23 for a mental health pickup.

Officials said it is too early to comment on a possible motive.

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