Marilyn was also shot in the back of the head, but survived. Phoenix police initially believed the murders were the result of a home invasion and suggested robbery was the motive, as some jewelry and cash were taken. Lukezic's wife, Joyce, was also accused of being involved in the conspiracy.
Cruz was convicted and sentenced to death for allegedly ordering the murders but was later acquitted during his fifth trial. Cruz was murdered two years after his acquittal and McCall and Bracy both died on death row before their executions could be carried out. He also had two stepchildren, five grandchildren, two brothers, and three sisters. Mary's Food Bank Alliance. His friend and business partner Ron Lukezic, who had known him for twenty years, said he "had no enemies; was too well-liked, and was just a nice guy.
Lukezic met William when they worked together in various printing businesses in Phoenix. In , the pair opened their own printing business, Graphic Dimensions. Marilyn's mother, Helen Phelps, was staying with them and helped prepare food for the guests. At around p. Marilyn assumed it was guests arriving early for the party and William answered. Moments later, William called out "Marilyn, come here.
The men, two of whom were Black and one White, then forced their way into the home. None of them were wearing masks. The men ordered William, Marilyn, and Phelps to head into a back bedroom. One of the intruders then asked Marilyn where the couple kept their guns and she showed the intruders a closet where they kept two shotguns and a rifle.
Marilyn was then walked into a bedroom where she saw Phelps lying face down on the bed with her hands tied behind her back.
