Arizona Father Christopher Scholtes Found Dead Ahead of Sentencing in Daughter’s Death
PHOENIX, AZ — A heartbreaking development has shaken the Phoenix community after Christopher Ryan Scholtes, 38, was found dead early Wednesday morning, days before he was due to be sentenced in the tragic case involving the death of his young daughter, Parker Scholtes, aged two.
According to Phoenix Police, officers were dispatched at approximately 5:22 a.m. to a home near 7th Street and Northern Avenue, where they discovered Scholtes unresponsive. He was pronounced dead at the scene. Authorities have stated that there were no signs of foul play and that the case is being investigated as a possible suicide. The Maricopa County Medical Examiner’s Office is conducting an autopsy to determine the official cause and manner of death.
The discovery marks a tragic new chapter in a story that began more than a year ago and has since captured state and national attention. On July 9, 2024, Scholtes’ daughter, Parker, was found unresponsive in a parked vehicle outside the family’s home in Marana, Arizona. Investigators said the car’s interior had reached fatal temperatures after the child was left inside for several hours. Despite emergency efforts, she could not be revived.
Court documents later revealed that Scholtes had left the toddler in the vehicle while he remained inside the house. The Marana Police Department launched a full investigation, leading to Scholtes being charged with second-degree murder and child abuse. Prosecutors alleged that Parker’s death was the result of gross negligence and a pattern of disregard for her safety.
Over the months that followed, details emerged about previous reports of family difficulties and concerns for the welfare of the children involved. The Arizona Department of Child Safety confirmed it had prior contact with the family before Parker’s death. Those records, as well as witness statements, became part of the evidence file in the criminal case.
In October 2025, Scholtes pleaded guilty to both second-degree murder and intentional child abuse as part of a plea agreement with prosecutors. He faced a potential sentence of 20 years or more in state prison. His sentencing hearing had been scheduled for later in November — just weeks after his death.
Those close to the case have expressed shock and sorrow at the latest turn of events. Friends and family members of both Christopher and Parker are now facing renewed grief. Neighbors in Marana and Phoenix have described the family as quiet but cordial, noting that the tragedy surrounding Parker’s death had already deeply affected them.
Community leaders have emphasized the importance of mental health awareness and the need for emotional support in the aftermath of traumatic legal proceedings. Several local organizations have offered counseling resources for those impacted by the case.
Authorities have confirmed that no one else is suspected to be involved in Scholtes’ death. Investigators are reviewing evidence from the scene and awaiting the final autopsy report, which is expected to provide further clarity.
The story of Christopher and Parker Scholtes remains one of the most somber in recent Arizona memory — a devastating reminder of the consequences of one moment’s decision and the lasting pain it can inflict.
Family friends have since organized a small private vigil in memory of both father and daughter, describing them as “a family torn apart by tragedy.” The Marana and Phoenix communities continue to mourn as they await the final findings from the medical examiner.
If you or someone you know is struggling with thoughts of self-harm, please contact the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline by calling or texting 988. Help is available 24/7.
