A shocking murder case in Arizona has left local residents disturbed after police discovered dismembered human remains hidden inside a suitcase in a closet. Authorities have now arrested a 32-year-old man in connection with the brutal killing.
Investigators say the crime scene showed signs of an attempted cleanup, but evidence found inside the apartment led police to what officials are calling one of the most disturbing homicide cases in recent memory.
Man Arrested After Dismembered Body Found in Arizona Apartment
Christopher Ebanks, 32, has been arrested and charged with first-degree murder and kidnapping after police discovered dismembered human remains inside an apartment closet in Phoenix.
Police responded to the apartment on May 7 after receiving a call about a possible homicide. The call reportedly came after a man said his daughter had told him that someone had been killed and that the body was hidden inside the apartment.
Police Found Signs of a Violent Crime Scene
When officers entered the apartment, they immediately noticed strong smells of bleach and other cleaning chemicals.
Investigators also reported seeing:
- Wet flooring throughout the home
- Cleaning supplies left in open areas
- Blankets and blood visible inside the apartment
- Signs of an attempted cleanup
These early observations raised serious concerns for responding officers.
Human Remains Found Inside a Closet
During the search of the apartment, officers made a horrifying discovery inside a hallway closet.
Authorities found dismembered human remains inside a suitcase.
According to investigators, the body had:
- Been wrapped in carpeting
- Been covered with an air mattress
- Been tied with an extension cord
- Reportedly been missing the head and hands
The victim’s identity has not yet been released by authorities.
Witness Describes Argument Before Killing
A woman at the apartment later spoke with investigators and described the events leading up to the alleged murder.
According to her statement, she had been arguing with her boyfriend about money when another man, identified as Christopher Ebanks, was invited to the home.
She claimed Ebanks had been introduced as someone who could help the couple financially.
The woman told police that multiple arguments followed between her boyfriend and Ebanks.
Woman Claims She Was Forced to Help
The woman alleged that she witnessed Ebanks attack her boyfriend with a hatchet during one of the arguments.
She further claimed that after the killing, Ebanks forced her at knifepoint to help clean the apartment and hide the victim’s body inside the closet.
Once she was safely away from him, she contacted her father, who then called police.
Investigators said they strongly believe the woman acted under duress and consider her a victim in the case.
Police Describe the Crime as Extremely Brutal
Robert Scherer of the Phoenix Police Department described the case as exceptionally violent.
He stated that even calling it “brutal” may not fully describe the nature of the crime.
Suspect Faces Serious Charges
Christopher Ebanks was taken into custody and formally charged with:
- First-degree murder
- Kidnapping
During his first court appearance, a judge set bail at $1 million.
According to reports, Ebanks asked the court to lower the amount, saying that “a million dollars is just not doable.”
Suspect Has Prior Criminal History
Investigators say Ebanks has an extensive criminal record.
Reports indicate he had been released from prison only about a month before this homicide.
Previous charges reportedly include:
- Aggravated assault
- Armed robbery
His criminal history is expected to become part of the ongoing legal proceedings.
Next Court Appearance Scheduled
Ebanks is scheduled to return to court on May 14 as investigators continue gathering evidence and working to identify the victim.
The disturbing details of this case have shocked the local community, and authorities say the investigation remains active as they work to uncover exactly what happened inside the apartment.
