In the quiet community of Sanders, Arizona, a beloved elderly couple, Robert and Martha Sorenson, were found deceased in their home on July 1, 2017. Robert, an 81-year-old male, and his 75-year-old wife were discovered by Apache County Sheriff's deputies who were conducting a welfare check after concerned family members were unable to reach them. The deputies noticed a bedroom window that appeared to be damaged by gunfire, prompting them to force entry into the residence where they found the
couple, both having sustained multiple gunshot wounds to the chest.
The investigation into the double homicide quickly pointed to a person of interest: 51-year-old Garry B. Wilckens, who was the boyfriend of the Sorensens' daughter, Susan. On the day of the murders, law enforcement had responded to a domestic incident involving Wilckens and Susan on a local highway. Neighbors later reported seeing the two arguing outside the Sorensen home before hearing gunshots. Wilckens, who had a criminal history including being a registered sex offender, fled the area after the incident.
A statewide manhunt was initiated for Wilckens, who was believed to be attempting to flee to Mexico. He was reportedly seen in Queen Creek, Arizona, after the murders. During his time on the run, he allegedly admitted to killing two people to a family member in Winslow and told another family member in Queen Creek of his intention to cross the border. The search for Wilckens came to an end on July 7, 2017, when he was apprehended in Mesa, Arizona, after allegedly assaulting someone at a bus stop. Although he provided a false name to the police, his identity was confirmed through his fingerprints.
While authorities did not officially release a motive, a grandson of the victims, William Sorensen, stated his belief that the killings were a result of jealousy, describing Wilckens as a possessive man. Wilckens was extradited to Apache County to face charges in connection with the murders of Robert and Martha Sorenson. His capture brought a sense of relief to the grieving family and the terrified community.
