The Queen Creek Police Department has submitted charges to the Maricopa County Attorney against seven individuals believed to be members of the notorious “Gilbert Goons” in connection with the murder of young Preston Lord.
Speculation about the young men involved in the beating death of 16-year-old Preston has run rampant as sources close to the matter allege at least one of the culprits comes from a wealthy and connected family in the Valley.
In November, the Queen Creek Police Department announced that detectives had identified multiple persons of interest in connection with the death of Lord.
Statement from QCPD Chief Randy Brice pic.twitter.com/aLGlUbXz7w
— Town of Queen Creek (@TownofQC) December 28, 2023
The Department did not publicly announce the names of the suspects at the time, leading concerned residents to speculate that authorities were protecting the wealthy family of one of the leaders of the “Gilbert Goons.” Sources familiar with the investigations say that the department is “wise to have taken its time and crossed all the T’s and dot all the I’s especially if the suspects are from well-known families with deep pockets and a bevy of lawyers ready to pounce.”
Young Preston Lord was killed in a beating that occurred on Oct. 28.
At approximately 9:07 p.m. , the Queen Creek Police Department (QCPD) received a call to the non-emergency line in regards to a juvenile disturbance in the area of Via del Oro and 194th St. Officers responded to the area and located a number of juveniles, later believed to be “Gilbert Goons” members, leaving the area; no illegal activity was observed. Within a few minutes, the officers on scene were diverted to a high-priority call with a potential crime in progress.
At 9:49 p.m. QCPD received a 911 call in regards to an assault in the area of 194th St. and Via Del Rancho. Officers arrived on scene in approximately three minutes. QCPD discovered Lord in the roadway of that area and administered life-saving efforts. He was transported to the hospital with life-threatening injuries. On Monday, Oct. 30 he passed away in the hospital.
QCPD Chief Brice called on parents to “talk to your kids. If they have direct evidence related to this case, we need you to come forward. For those who attended this party or saw the incident, if you are being threatened or you are scared to say something, please talk to your parents or someone you trust. Do the right thing and help us bring justice for Preston and his family.”
According to QCPD, in addition to receiving hundreds of tips, the investigation has included extensive interviews, warrants, and court orders. Since the incident occurred, a significant amount of data has been processed and analyzed.