An international manhunt is underway for a 27-year-old Arizona man suspected of killing his parents, whose bodies were discovered buried in the backyard of a Litchfield Park home.
Police identified the suspect as Matthew Flores. Investigators believe he has fled the country. The bodies of his mother and father were recovered from the backyard on Friday.
During a press conference, Avondale Police Officer Daniel Benavidez stated that officers found significant amounts of blood inside the residence, along with evidence suggesting an attempt to clean the scene, which he indicated points to foul play. The investigation began after the three individuals disappeared under suspicious circumstances, prompting a missing persons inquiry.
Authorities required a mini excavator to retrieve the bodies from the backyard. Benavidez noted that the bodies were in a state of decomposition. The FBI and U.S. Marshals Service are involved in the search for Flores.
Individuals who knew Flores expressed surprise at his being named a suspect, describing him to FOX 10 as a kind and sweet man. The Flores family released a statement calling themselves "devastated" and stated they are cooperating fully with law enforcement, requesting privacy during this difficult time.
