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Suspect at large in double homicide investigation

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SANDERS, Ariz. – Apache County Sheriff’s Office personnel responded to a home on Del Rio Road in Sanders, Ariz., after receiving a request for a welfare check at about 7:54 p.m. on July 1. Family members were concerned after several phone calls went unanswered to the elderly couple who resides at the home.

Deputies made force entry into the home after making observations and discovering a bedroom window appearing to be damaged by gunfire. Deputies discovered Robert Sorensen, age 81, and Martha Sorensen, age 75, deceased inside the home from apparent gunshot wounds.

Based on investigative leads and witness accounts, Garry B. Wilckens, 51, has been identified as a person of interest in the investigation of Mr. and Mrs. Sorensen’s deaths. Garry Wilckens has reportedly fled the area. His last known whereabouts were Queen Creek, Ariz., on July 2. Wilckens may be attempting to flee the United States into Mexico.

The Apache County Sheriff’s Office is seeking the public’s assistance in locating Garry Wilckens. If he is located, please contact local law enforcement or the Apache County Sheriff’s Office at the listed numbers.

The Apache County Sheriff’s Office has reason to believe that there exists a likelihood of substantial harm to individuals or the public. Due to that potential danger, the Apache County Sheriff’s Office urges that no one approach Wilckens as he may be armed and/or dangerous.

The Apache County Sheriff’s Office is urging anyone with information about this case or the location of Mr. Wilckens to call local law enforcement or the Apache County Sheriff’s Office at (800) 352-1850 or (928) 337-4321.

Staff Reports