Phoenix, November 26, 2025
Keith McCollough, a member of the Hells Angels Motorcycle Club, has been sentenced to life in prison for the murder of Richard Coss in Phoenix. The shooting, linked to gang retaliation, occurred in December 2021. In addition to McCollough’s sentence, his co-defendants received prison terms for their involvement. Maricopa County Attorney Rachel Mitchell emphasized the importance of community cooperation and law enforcement in combating gang-related violence.
Phoenix, Arizona – Hells Angels Member Sentenced to Life for 2021 Murder
Keith McCollough, a member of the Hells Angels Motorcycle Club, has been sentenced to life in prison for the December 2021 murder of 25-year-old Richard Coss in Phoenix.
On December 18, 2021, McCollough, along with two armed associates, forcibly entered an apartment near 23rd Avenue and Rose Garden Lane. During the confrontation, Coss was fatally shot. DNA and physical evidence linked McCollough directly to the crime scene, and witness testimony confirmed that the attack was carried out in retaliation under the Hells Angels’ banner. In addition to the life sentence for first-degree murder, McCollough received a 20.75-year sentence for first-degree burglary.
Two co-defendants, Jimmy Eslinger and Carl Blazak, pleaded guilty in connection with the case. Eslinger was sentenced to 16 years in prison, while Blazak received a 10.5-year sentence.
Maricopa County Attorney Rachel Mitchell emphasized the severity of the crime, stating that the Hells Angels aim to instill fear, but in Maricopa County, authorities do not yield to intimidation or outlaw motorcycle gangs. She highlighted the collaborative efforts of prosecutors, detectives, and witnesses who stood against a culture of fear to bring the perpetrators to justice.
The case underscores the ongoing challenges law enforcement faces in addressing gang-related violence and the importance of community cooperation in ensuring public safety.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Who is Keith McCollough?
Keith McCollough is a member of the Hells Angels Motorcycle Club who was convicted for the December 2021 murder of Richard Coss in Phoenix, Arizona.
What was the sentence for Keith McCollough?
McCollough was sentenced to life in prison for first-degree murder and an additional 20.75 years for first-degree burglary.
Who are the co-defendants in this case?
The co-defendants are Jimmy Eslinger and Carl Blazak. Eslinger received a 16-year prison sentence, while Blazak was sentenced to 10.5 years.
What was the motive behind the murder?
The murder was carried out in retaliation under the Hells Angels’ banner, as confirmed by witness testimony and evidence presented during the trial.
How did law enforcement address this case?
Law enforcement utilized DNA and physical evidence, along with witness testimony, to link McCollough to the crime scene and confirm the gang-related motive.
Key Features of the Case
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Defendant | Keith McCollough |
| Co-Defendants | Jimmy Eslinger, Carl Blazak |
| Victim | Richard Coss |
| Location | Phoenix, Arizona |
| Crime Date | December 18, 2021 |
| Sentences | Life imprisonment for McCollough; 16 years for Eslinger; 10.5 years for Blazak |
| Evidence | DNA, physical evidence, witness testimony |
| Motive | Retaliation under the Hells Angels’ banner |
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Author: STAFF HERE PHOENIX WRITER
The PHOENIX STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREPhoenix.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Phoenix, Maricopa County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Waste Management Phoenix Open, Cactus League Spring Training, and Arizona State Fair. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Phoenix Chamber of Commerce and Visit Phoenix, plus leading businesses in technology and healthcare that power the local economy such as Intel and Banner Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERETucson.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Arizona's dynamic landscape.
