In the quiet community of Glendale, Arizona, a horrific tragedy unfolded that claimed the life of six-year-old Emma Buckner. The young female was killed on February 23, 2016, a victim of a shocking act of violence perpetrated by her own brother.
The events of that tragic day began when police received a distress call from the Buckner residence, with the caller reporting a shooting in progress inside the home. By the time authorities arrived, the house was engulfed in flames.
Inside the inferno, a devastating scene awaited first responders. Emma, along with her 18-year-old sister Kaitlin Buckner, and their parents, 50-year-old Vic and 49-year-old Kimberly Buckner, had all been shot.
The suspect in this familicide was identified as 26-year-old Alex Buckner, the son and brother of the victims. After shooting his family members, Alex Buckner set the house on fire. As police and firefighters arrived, he fired shots at them, creating a volatile and dangerous situation.
Responding officers made a valiant attempt to rescue the family, pulling Kaitlin from the burning home. Tragically, she later succumbed to her injuries at a local hospital. Firefighters battled the blaze while police engaged in a standoff with Alex. The confrontation ultimately ended with Alex being shot and killed by law enforcement at the scene. Family members later revealed that Alex had a history of mental illness, including schizophrenia, which they believe led to the devastating rampage. The incident left the community in shock and mourning for the loss of the entire Buckner family.
