On a tragic day in Mesa, Arizona, 19-year-old Carol Pope Farmer was a victim of gun violence. On November 12, 1966, her life was cut short in a devastating event that also took the lives of four other individuals. The other victims were identified as Debra 'Debbie' Sellers, who was only three years old, 18-year-old Glenda Sue Carter, 27-year-old Joyce Faye Sellers, and 18-year-old Mary Olsen.
The circumstances surrounding their deaths pointed to a violent and sudden attack.
Law enforcement officials began an investigation to piece together the events that led to the multiple homicides. The case drew significant media attention at the time, as the community was left in shock by the brutality of the crime and the loss of five lives, including a very young child.
In connection with the deaths, Robert Benjamin Smith, who was 18 years old at the time, was identified as a suspect. He was subsequently arrested and faced legal proceedings for his alleged involvement in the heinous crime that ended the lives of Carol Pope Farmer and the four other victims. The case left a lasting impact on the Mesa community, a stark reminder of the devastating consequences of gun violence.
