In a quiet Peoria, Arizona neighborhood, a domestic disturbance escalated into a fatal shooting on the evening of September 14, 2025, claiming the life of 64-year-old Casey Orlowski. The tragic events unfolded at a residence near 83rd Avenue and Happy Valley Road, leading to the arrest of his stepson.
The incident began with a distressed 911 call from Orlowski, a male, who reported that his 25-year-old stepson, Zachary Parker, was armed and pointing a handgun at both him and his wife.
As the situation intensified, Orlowski's wife managed to escape to a neighbor's home, where a second 911 call was made. Meanwhile, Orlowski barricaded himself inside a bedroom for safety while awaiting the arrival of law enforcement.
Upon reaching the scene at approximately 10 p.m., officers heard multiple gunshots coming from inside the residence. They found the front security door locked, preventing immediate entry. Shortly after, Zachary Parker exited the home with his hands up and was taken into custody without incident. When police entered the home, they discovered Casey Orlowski inside with a fatal gunshot wound; it is believed the fatal shots were fired through the bedroom door. Parker reportedly told officers he 'did what he needed to do.'
Zachary Parker was arrested and later booked into the Maricopa County Jail on several felony charges, including second-degree murder and aggravated assault. Authorities noted that Parker had a history of mental health-related issues and had access to firearms within the home. During his initial court appearance, Parker claimed that his stepfather had been the aggressor and that he had acted in self-defense. The investigation into the shooting was described as an isolated domestic violence incident with no further threat to the community.
