Gilbert, Arizona, November 25, 2025
In Gilbert, Arizona, a 56-year-old man named Gary Crawford has been arrested for allegedly killing his 91-year-old stepfather and critically injuring his mother. The incident unfolded when family members raised a welfare concern after the victims missed dinner plans. Despite being discovered with critical injuries, the mother remains hospitalized. Authorities tracked Crawford’s stolen vehicle, leading to his apprehension. He faces multiple charges, including first-degree murder, and is being held on a $2 million bond.
Gilbert, Arizona: Man Arrested for Allegedly Killing Stepfather and Injuring Mother
A 56-year-old man has been arrested in Gilbert, Arizona, on charges including first-degree murder and attempted first-degree murder after allegedly killing his 91-year-old stepfather and critically injuring his 81-year-old mother. The incident occurred on November 22, 2025, at their residence near McQueen and Elliot roads. The suspect, Gary Crawford, is currently being held on a $2 million bond.
Details of the Incident
On the evening of November 22, a concerned family member called 911 after her father, Oscar Casdorph, and her mother, the 81-year-old woman, missed dinner plans and did not respond to calls or the doorbell. Upon arrival, Gilbert police officers conducted a welfare check at the residence and discovered Mr. Casdorph deceased with signs of trauma, and his wife critically wounded. She was transported to the hospital in critical condition.
Investigation and Arrest
During the investigation, authorities learned that Gary Crawford, the son of the 81-year-old woman and stepson to Mr. Casdorph, had recently moved into the home. Crawford, along with a vehicle belonging to the couple, was missing. Additionally, suspicious activity was noted on Mr. Casdorph’s bank account, including $500 withdrawals at a Chase Bank branch in Glendale on Friday and Saturday.
Detectives utilized license plate reader technology to track the stolen vehicle to Glendale. On the morning of November 23, they located the minivan with Crawford behind the wheel. He was stopped and taken into custody. During an interview, Crawford allegedly admitted to killing his stepfather and attempting to kill his mother, stating he “snapped” and became so angry that he “blacked out.”
Charges and Legal Proceedings
Gary Crawford has been charged with first-degree murder, attempted first-degree murder, fraudulent schemes, theft of means of transportation, and tampering with physical evidence. He is being held on a $2 million bond. The 81-year-old woman remains hospitalized in critical condition. Investigators have stated that this was an isolated incident and there are no outstanding suspects.
Background Context
Gilbert, Arizona, has experienced several high-profile criminal cases in recent years. In 2012, J.T. Ready, a former Marine and leader of a border militia group, fatally shot his girlfriend, her daughter, her granddaughter, and himself in a domestic violence incident. In 2009, Marissa DeVault was convicted of murdering her husband, Dale Harrell, with a hammer in a case that drew national attention.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What charges has Gary Crawford been arrested on?
- Gary Crawford has been arrested on charges including first-degree murder, attempted first-degree murder, fraudulent schemes, theft of means of transportation, and tampering with physical evidence. He is being held on a $2 million bond.
- What is the current condition of the 81-year-old woman?
- The 81-year-old woman remains hospitalized in critical condition.
- What was the cause of the incident?
- Gary Crawford allegedly admitted to killing his stepfather and attempting to kill his mother, stating he “snapped” and became so angry that he “blacked out.” Investigators believe this was an isolated incident and there are no outstanding suspects.
- Has Gary Crawford been located?
- Yes, Gary Crawford was located in Glendale, Arizona, on the morning of November 23, 2025, and taken into custody.
- What is the background of Gilbert, Arizona, regarding criminal cases?
- Gilbert, Arizona, has experienced several high-profile criminal cases in recent years, including the 2012 J.T. Ready incident and the 2009 Marissa DeVault case.
| Key Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Incident Date | November 22, 2025 |
| Location | Gilbert, Arizona |
| Victims | 91-year-old Oscar Casdorph (deceased), 81-year-old woman (critically injured) |
| Suspect | Gary Crawford, 56 |
| Charges | First-degree murder, attempted first-degree murder, fraudulent schemes, theft of means of transportation, tampering with physical evidence |
| Bond | $2 million |
| Victim’s Condition | 81-year-old woman remains hospitalized in critical condition |
| Investigation Details | Suspect admitted to crimes, vehicle tracked to Glendale, no outstanding suspects |
| Background | Gilbert has experienced high-profile criminal cases, including the 2012 J.T. Ready incident and the 2009 Marissa DeVault case |
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