Phoenix, ARIZONA – In a startling and emotional turnabout following a fatal road rage incident earlier this year in Arizona, his family claims their loved one has returned in some spiritual sense to deliver a message to his suspected assailant.
Marcus DeLeon, 38-years old at the time of his death was shot during a road rage incident near Phoenix in February and shortly afterwards 29-year-old Tyler Brent Collins was charged with second-degree murder and unlawful discharge of weapons.
DeLeon’s family made headlines this week when they publicly stated that Marcus has “spiritually returned,” through dreams and strange happenings, to express a wish for justice–and forgiveness.
Lisa DeLeon, Marcus’s sister, disclosed this when speaking at an emotional press conference outside Maricopa County Superior Court: “He has come back into my sleep on multiple occasions requesting justice be served upon those responsible.” “He doesn’t want revenge; all he wants is truth to be known and for those responsible to understand how their actions affected others in this world.
The family has not reported any supernatural interference with their investigation, yet their claims have sparked intense public curiosity and social media discussion. Some have likened this case to previous ones where grieving families reported contact from deceased loved ones as an attempt at emotional closure.
Collins has pleaded not guilty and maintains that the shooting was in self-defense after an intense clash between drivers. Surveillance footage and witness testimony will likely play an integral role in his trial, which is scheduled to start later this summer.
Prosecutors maintain that DeLeon was unarmed and did not present an immediate threat, discrediting any claims of self-defense by DeLeon. As Assistant District Attorney Maria Velasquez put it: “This incident can only be described as unnecessary violence–an argument over something so trivial as road rage that ended tragically with one life being lost senselessly.
As their court case proceeds, the DeLeon family finds comfort from what they perceive to be signs of Marcus’ spiritual presence, such as flickering lights or unexpected performances of favorite songs – and from shared dreams.
Lisa DeLeon acknowledged, “We know some will not believe us; however, our goal here is not to convert anyone; rather we seek justice–and uphold Marcus’ message of peace despite violence.”
As this case unfolds, its story has ignited wider conversations in Arizona about grief, justice and how families cope with loss after tragedy occurs.