Breaking: Arizona Prepares Execution in 2002 Murder Case Involving Victim Set on Fire

Authorities in Arizona are preparing to carry out the execution of Leroy Dean McGill, a prisoner convicted in the 2002 killing of Charles Perez during a violent arson attack in north Phoenix. McGill, 63, is scheduled to receive a lethal injection of pentobarbital at the Arizona State Prison Complex, marking one of several executions planned across the United States this week.

According to court records and prosecutors, the fatal incident occurred on July 13, 2002, when McGill allegedly threw gasoline on Charles Perez and Nova Banta while the pair sat on a sofa inside a Phoenix apartment. Authorities stated that McGill then ignited the fuel with a lit match, causing both victims to catch fire. Investigators said the attack followed accusations that McGill had stolen a firearm from the residence.

Emergency responders later transported both victims for medical treatment. Nova Banta survived despite suffering severe third-degree burns over much of her body, while Charles Perez later died from injuries sustained in the attack. Prosecutors described the injuries as causing extreme pain before Perez’s death.

During trial proceedings, Banta testified that McGill confronted the victims before setting them on fire. Jurors convicted McGill in October 2004 of murder, attempted murder, arson, and multiple endangerment-related charges connected to the apartment fire and the risk posed to nearby residents.

The scheduled execution comes amid a broader series of executions taking place across the United States this week. Officials reported that 12 executions have already been carried out nationwide this year, with additional executions planned in other states.

Legal proceedings surrounding McGill’s sentence have continued for years through appeals and post-conviction review processes. Arizona officials confirmed that the execution is expected to proceed unless further legal intervention occurs before the scheduled time.