A wave of sorrow has swept through the San Carlos Apache Nation following the tragic killing of 56-year-old Jessie Russell Sr., a respected and well-loved tribal member who was found dead Monday afternoon near the Apache Gold Casino along U.S. Highway 70.
According to the San Carlos Apache Police Department (SCAPD), officers were dispatched around 3:45 p.m. on October 27, 2025, after multiple 911 calls reported a disturbance and possible shooting near the casino entrance. When first responders arrived, they discovered Russell suffering from severe injuries consistent with a violent assault. Despite life-saving efforts by emergency personnel and the San Carlos Fire Department, he was pronounced dead at the scene.
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Authorities immediately secured the area, closing a portion of Highway 70 for several hours while detectives and forensic teams gathered evidence and interviewed witnesses. The Arizona Department of Public Safety and the Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) are assisting local law enforcement in the ongoing investigation due to the federal jurisdiction over tribal lands.
“Mr. Russell was a pillar of our community — a kind, wise, and deeply respected man,” said San Carlos Apache Police Chief Brian Barlow. “We are pursuing every lead and will not rest until those responsible are held accountable. We ask the community to share any information, no matter how small.”
The Apache Gold Casino Resort, operated by the San Carlos Apache Tribe, temporarily closed operations following the incident out of respect for the victim and to accommodate investigative efforts. Tribal leaders issued a joint statement mourning the loss, calling Russell’s death “a heartbreaking tragedy that has left our people in mourning.”
“Jessie was more than a community member — he was a father, mentor, and friend, embodying the spirit of the San Carlos Apache people,” said one tribal council representative. “His humility and willingness to help others will never be forgotten.”
On Monday night, dozens of residents gathered at the San Carlos Community Center for a candlelight vigil, offering prayers, songs, and words of remembrance. Attendees described Russell as a hardworking man who dedicated his time to community projects, cultural preservation, and youth mentorship.
As of Tuesday morning, investigators had not released any information about potential suspects or motives. However, detectives are reviewing surveillance footage from nearby businesses and the casino’s entrance to identify persons of interest or vehicles seen in the area around the time of the incident.
The Gila County Medical Examiner’s Office will conduct an autopsy to determine the exact cause of death. Meanwhile, tribal leaders are urging calm and unity as the community grieves.
“Violence has no place here,” said Tribal Chairman Terry Rambler. “We must stand together, honor Jessie’s memory, and continue striving for peace and justice within our Nation.”
Anyone with information related to the case is urged to contact the San Carlos Apache Police Department or the BIA Office of Justice Services.
As candles continued to flicker into the night, the San Carlos Apache community stood together — united in heartbreak, remembrance, and determination to ensure justice for Jessie Russell Sr.