Phoenix, Arizona – Two cases against Alfredo Gutierrez have been dropped due to the deportation of a key witness, but justice may now be within reach as Gutierrez faces new charges in connection to a 2020 murder case.
Allegedly involved in the killing of Lee Rice and concealing his body in a barrel, Gutierrez was arrested at the Douglas Port of Entry and now faces charges including second-degree murder. The victim, Rice, was found zip-tied around his neck, knees, and ankles in Gutierrez’s Phoenix residence in October 2020, according to court records.
Despite initial setbacks, with the state’s key witness being deported, there is renewed hope for justice as Gutierrez was re-arrested in early 2023 and indicted for second degree murder, kidnapping, and aggravated assault. This development comes after multiple twists and turns in the case that left Rice’s mother, Colleen Rice, seeking answers and accountability.
Having faced disappointment with the dismissal of the case in 2022 and later in 2023 due to the inability to locate the key witness, Colleen Rice’s perseverance has been unwavering. She has actively pursued justice for her son, voicing her concerns to the county attorney and a previously assigned judge and refusing to let her son’s memory fade into obscurity.
With Gutierrez now in custody on a $1 million cash bond, Colleen Rice remains resolute in her pursuit of justice, emphasizing that her sole priority is seeking closure for her son, Lee. Ready to attend every court hearing and ensure that her presence is felt, Rice’s determination serves as a reminder of a mother’s unwavering love and commitment to fighting for her child.
As Gutierrez prepares to face his arraignment, Colleen Rice stands ready to once again step into the courtroom, hoping that this time justice will prevail for her son. The gravity of the situation underscores the importance of accountability and closure for families impacted by senseless acts of violence.