In the early morning hours of November 28, 2014, the vibrant atmosphere of Mill Avenue in Tempe, Arizona, was shattered by an act of violence that claimed the life of 21-year-old Errun Scroggins. An altercation that began inside the since-closed Martini Ranch bar spilled out into the street, escalating into a tragedy that would leave a family grieving and a community in shock.
Scroggins, a young male, became embroiled in a dispute that turned deadly.
As the conflict moved outdoors, it drew the attention of bystanders and law enforcement alike. Amid the chaos, gunfire erupted, and Scroggins was struck. The shooter fled the scene, leaving Scroggins critically injured. Despite the immediate response from emergency services and his rapid transport to a nearby hospital, the severity of his injuries proved fatal, and he was pronounced dead. The initial investigation painted a picture of a senseless act of violence stemming from a trivial disagreement.
The Tempe Police Department launched an intensive investigation, dedicating numerous resources to identifying and apprehending the individuals responsible for Scroggins' death. Their efforts led them to three suspects: Franklin L. Russell, 23, his brother, 27-year-old Thomas J. Russell, and their acquaintance, 25-year-old Edward T. Hall. Through witness interviews and the analysis of evidence, investigators pieced together the events of that fateful morning. It was determined that Franklin Russell was the individual who fired the shots that killed Scroggins.
The investigation revealed that the initial confrontation inside the bar had involved Scroggins and the Russell brothers. Hall was identified as having been present with the brothers during the incident. Following the shooting, all three men fled the scene. Over the subsequent weeks, detectives diligently followed leads, which ultimately led to the arrests of all three suspects. The arrests brought a measure of relief to a community on edge and marked a significant step forward in the pursuit of justice for Errun Scroggins. The subsequent legal proceedings would seek to hold the responsible parties accountable for their roles in the tragic and untimely death of the young man.
