Police arrested a Buckeye man on multiple felony charges, including second-degree murder, in the fatal shooting Sunday morning.
According to the Buckeye Police Department, officers responded at about 10:47 a.m. to a report of a shooting at a home near 3rd Street and East Centre Avenue. When officers arrived, they found an adult male, later identified as Ewell McCrae, unresponsive in the front yard with a single gunshot wound to the chest, according to court documents obtained by InBuckeye.
Investigators said a male eyewitness reported that the suspect, identified as Roger McCrae Jr., arrived at the residence driving a white Chevrolet Silverado and became involved in an argument and fight with the victim. The witness saw Roger McCrae Jr. punch the victim, who attempted to throw a power tool, according to court documents.
The suspect walked back to the truck, retrieved a black handgun from the rear driver’s side, and shot Ewell McCrae once in the chest, according to court documents. The witness told police the suspect fled the scene in the vehicle but later returned on foot, where he was detained by officers, according to Buckeye police. The witness positively identified him, Buckeye police stated.
The pickup truck owner told investigators she was present during the argument but walked away toward a nearby church, according to court documents. She reported hearing a gunshot and turning to see the suspect standing over the victim’s body.
Police found a spent shell casing at the scene. The truck was found nearby and taken into evidence. However, the gun used in the shooting was not found, leading investigators to believe the suspect disposed of or concealed the weapon after the shooting, Buckeye police stated.
During a recorded interview, Roger McCrae Jr. denied any involvement in the incident, as well as any altercation with the victim or possession of a firearm, according to court documents.
Police stated those statements contradict witness accounts and physical evidence. Officers also noted the suspect had no visible injuries consistent with a physical fight.
Officers booked Roger McCrae Jr. on charges of second-degree murder, a Class 1 dangerous felony, unlawful discharge of a firearm, and tampering with physical evidence. The investigation remains ongoing.
Roger McCrae Jr. is expected to appear in court June 29 in Maricopa County Superior Court for a status hearing.
