QUEEN CREEK, Ariz. — It's hard to imagine the pain Melissa Lord's family has endured for the past month.
Last month, her nephew Preston Lord was assaulted and killed at a Halloween party in Queen Creek. The 16-year-old tragically died from his injuries two days later and police have been investigating his death ever since... But no arrests have been made.
Hundreds in the East Valley spent the somber anniversary together by walking from American Leadership Academy in Queen Creek to the Queen Creek Police Department. Participants wore orange, Lord's favorite color.
“It’s been a month since our family got a call that would change our lives forever," said Melissa Lord, Preston's aunt.
“It’s also been a month since a group of boys decided to beat my nephew and leave him on the side of the road and go home like nothing happened," Melissa Lord said. “It’s been a month since the parents of these boys have chosen to live a life of silence while we’ve been living a real life nightmare.”
Lord's death has sent shockwaves through the tight-knit community.
“I think everyone feels the same. We’re just heartbroken and devastated but also trying to come together to support not only the family but the safety of all of our youth, said Katey McPherson.
“We just can’t not do anything. Somebody knows something and they have to come forward because it’s not fair for this family to be doing this on their own so I think that’s why we’re all out," said Katrina Perez.
Since the attack on October 28, Queen Creek PD has partnered with the FBI and stated they've identified multiple persons of interest. No arrests have been made.
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“I know that we want answers but more than anything we don’t just want an arrest. We want a conviction so I just ask that you all pray for the police, pray for the FBI," Melissa Lord said.
Authorities are offering a $10,000 reward for information leading to an arrest.
In a statement Queen Creek PD Chief Randy Brice said, "We understand the community is grieving the loss of a child and you want an arrest. We do too. This was a heinous crime and we are committed to holding those involved accountable. Due to the nature of the incident, it is imperative that we conduct a thorough investigation that provides a foundation for a strong case in court, which is ultimately necessary for a conviction. As your Chief of Police and as a parent, my heart is heavy, especially as we go into the holidays. We continue to focus on justice for Preston and his family."
A GoFundMe page has been created to assist The Lord Family during this difficult time. You can find the link to donate here.
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