An international manhunt has been launched for a 27-year-old man accused of killing both his parents after their bodies were found buried in the backyard of their family home. Police reportedly found human remains at an address in Litchfield Park, Arizona, US, with large amounts of blood also discovered in the house.
Evidence of foul play
Cops say there was evidence someone had tried to clean up the crime scene, suggesting evidence of foul play. Matthew Flores is being sought after he was named as a suspect over the death of his parents. Officials believe Flores may have already fled the country.
A missing persons investigation was initially sparked after the three family members were reported missing under "suspicious circumstances", prompting police to act. Police reportedly found human remains at an address in Litchfield Park, Arizona, USA. A mini excavator was required to remove the two bodies from the backyard of the family home.
Investigation and search
Avondale police officer Daniel Benavidez said: "I can't tell you how many hours or days, but what I can say is that the bodies are in a state of decomposition." FBI and US Marshals service are currently searching for Flores, who is understood to have fled the US.
Police spokesperson Sgt. Jenny Chavez said: "We are not releasing any location-specific information regarding the suspect's whereabouts or any locations to which he may have fled. The suspect resided in the home with the husband and wife."
Community reaction
One local resident said they heard a disturbance near the home last Tuesday. Speaking to Fox 10 Arizona local, Alec Rogers, said: "There was a little bit of yelling and I don't know exactly who from." Rogers added: "The dad there, we see him every once in a while, he's very, very friendly but we don't talk too much just whenever we see him, we say hello."
Another local, who wanted to remain anonymous, said: "I was on the other side of the sidewalk and I definitely heard it come from that direction. But I was like, 'OK, we live by a middle school, it might be nothing'." The Flores family said in a statement they had been left "devastated" by the incident.
A family representative said: "They are fully cooperating with law enforcement. Because this is an ongoing investigation, the family respectfully asks for privacy during this difficult time. Their deepest gratitude is extended to their loved ones, neighbours and the community at large who have expressed concern."
