Surprise, Arizona – A tragic incident unfolded in Surprise, Arizona, as a father and his two young children were found dead in what appears to be a murder-suicide. Police discovered the bodies of 34-year-old Brock Mater, along with his 7-year-old son and 6-year-old daughter, during a welfare check requested by Mater’s estranged wife. This heartbreaking event has left the community grieving and searching for answers.
According to the Surprise Police Department’s incident debrief, Mater’s estranged wife became concerned when their children’s school reported an unexcused absence following their weekend visit with him. Unable to reach Mater by phone and receiving no response at the front door, she called the police. Officers arrived at the residence, attempted multiple contacts, and eventually gained entry to the home. Inside, they discovered the lifeless bodies of Mater and his two children, each with a gunshot wound to the head.
Sgt. Rick Hernandez of the Surprise Police revealed during a press conference that neighbors had reported hearing “loud noises, possibly fireworks” the night the incident is believed to have occurred. However, neighbors did not witness anything suspicious and returned to their homes afterwards. Hernandez also mentioned that Mater had been undergoing mental health treatment while being separated from his wife, and the treatment seemed to be going well.
The police have responded to previous calls involving Mater’s mental health struggles, but there is no evidence of any criminal history. Hernandez emphasized that incidents like these can impact anyone, regardless of their background or location. Encouraging people to seek treatment, he highlighted the importance of addressing mental health and domestic violence issues.
The city of Surprise, Arizona, is reeling from the tragedy that unfolded within its community, as a father and his two children were found dead in what authorities are calling an apparent murder-suicide. Details are still emerging, but it is clear that mental health played a role in this devastating event. The police have confirmed that they had responded to previous calls related to Mater’s mental health, reinforcing the need for accessible and effective mental health support. As the investigation continues, the community mourns the loss of three lives and grapples with the impact of this heartbreaking incident.