The peaceful atmosphere of Tonto National Forest near Chandler, Arizona was disturbed by a gruesome event last summer.
The case revolves around Anthonie Ruinard Jr., a 38-year-old ex-restaurant owner from Tucson, Arizona, who is accused of a horrific crime that has left the community in shock.
Parker League, an 18-year-old from Gretna, Nebraska, was found dismembered, stabbed, and charred beyond recognition.
Rachel Mitchell, the Maricopa County Attorney, revealed on April 5, 2024, that a grand jury had indicted Ruinard on charges of second-degree murder and hiding or disposing of a dead body. The announcement brought to light the grim specifics of League’s death. The remains of the teenager were found on June 12, 2023, in an isolated part of the forest ominously referred to as “The Pit.” The identity of the young man was confirmed solely through dental records, and his tragic end has garnered significant attention.
Ruinard, the former owner of Pastiche Modern Eatery in Tucson, which shut down in February 2021 after a minor fire, was taken into custody on July 5, 2023 following the discovery of DNA evidence and surveillance footage linking him to the crime. The last known sighting of League alive was captured on surveillance camera at a gas station in Chandler, showing him and Ruinard leaving together in a black Dodge Challenger on June 11.
League had traveled to Arizona to celebrate his graduation from Gretna High School in May and to meet friends. After he failed to return home on June 12, his family reported him missing.
The investigation into League’s death revealed unsettling elements. Surveillance footage showed League with Ruinard shortly before his disappearance and later showed Ruinard attempting to use League’s bank card. Blood found on the rear bumper and trunk of Ruinard’s car further linked the accused to the victim.
“Seasoned murder case prosecutors in our department meticulously sifted through almost 4,000 pages of documents related to this homicide investigation. Following a thorough five-month examination, we successfully obtained an indictment,” said County Attorney Mitchell. This indictment, she emphasized, is a significant step towards seeking justice for Parker League and his family.
With charges extending beyond the murder and disposal of League’s body, Ruinard is facing a complex legal battle. Additional charges include possession for sale and manufacture of narcotic drugs, misconduct involving weapons, and credit card theft/fraud. His trial is set to begin in July.
