TAYLOR, ARIZONA — A nationwide manhunt for Francis Alcantar Chavez, 23, ended in a deadly shootout in Missouri after he allegedly killed his mother and stepfather in Arizona and fled nearly 1,000 miles across the country.
On Sunday, police discovered the bodies of Cynthia Templeton, 53, and her husband Troy Templeton, 62, in their home on Center Street in Taylor, Arizona. Both victims had suffered fatal gunshot wounds. The discovery was made by Cynthia’s ex-husband while returning two children to the residence, according to Snowflake-Taylor Police.
Chavez was immediately identified as the primary suspect, prompting authorities to issue a nationwide alert for his arrest. On Tuesday, he was located in Concordia, Missouri, where local police attempted to detain him, but Chavez escaped.
Later that evening, Missouri State Troopers located his motorcycle. During the ensuing encounter, Chavez crashed into a police vehicle, fled on foot, and opened fire on a pursuing trooper. The officer was struck in the bullet-resistant vest and survived.
The trooper returned fire, fatally shooting Chavez. The injured officer was transported to a local hospital and is expected to make a full recovery.
“This is a tragic incident that has shaken our community,” said Snowflake-Taylor Police Chief Robert Martin. “Our hearts go out to the loved ones of Troy and Cynthia during this incredibly difficult time.”
Both Cynthia and Troy Templeton were members of the Arizona Rangers, a civilian law enforcement auxiliary with a legacy dating back to the early 1900s. The couple had been married just over a year, according to Cynthia’s sister.
State Commander Col. Barry J. Adams confirmed the couple had met and fallen in love while serving with the Arizona Rangers.
