Tucson Homicide Suspects Escape Custody

Two homicide suspects are wanted by Tucson Police Department after escaping custody during transport.

Officials are looking for Blane and Susan Barksdale after they reportedly escaped custody while being moved from Henrietta, New York, to Pima County.  The Barksdales reportedly overtook two security officers Monday evening in Blanding, Utah.

The couple is wanted in connection with the murder of 72-year-old Frank Bligh, which occurred in Tucson on April 16, 2019. Tucson police believe the couple killed the elderly man and burned down his house.

Tucson Police Department says the Barksdales, both in their 50s, were last seen driving a red GMC Sierra pickup truck with Arizona license plate “127XTY”. The vehicle is has damage to the front passenger side and also rear bumper. The couple may be driving through Arizona. Blane has numerous tattoos on his arms and hands.

Police warn that they are believed to be armed and dangerous and should not be approached.  The FBI, US Marshals and Apache County Sheriff’s Office are assisting in the investigation. If you see them, contact 911 immediately.