An Arizona man has been charged with murder after police say he repeatedly struck his 76-year-old roommate in the head and face with a construction helmet during an argument over a $50 electric bill. The elderly victim survived the initial attack but remained hospitalized for more than two months before dying from complications related to his injuries, according to investigators.
Roommate Dies Weeks After Alleged Assault
Troy Yazzie, 31, has been charged with second-degree murder in connection with the death of his 76-year-old roommate, whose identity has not been publicly released by authorities.
According to an arrest affidavit, the victim died earlier this month after suffering medical complications linked to the severe injuries he sustained during the alleged assault.
Argument Began Over Electric Bill
Police say the incident occurred on April 30 at the roommates’ home in Phoenix, Arizona.
According to investigators, the victim told police that he had given Yazzie $50 to pay the household electric bill.
However, when the bill remained unpaid, the elderly man asked Yazzie to return the money.
Authorities say the discussion quickly escalated into a heated verbal argument.
Construction Helmet Used as Weapon
According to the arrest affidavit, investigators allege Yazzie became angry during the dispute and grabbed a white construction helmet.
Police say he repeatedly struck the victim in the face and head with the helmet.
The affidavit states that the victim told officers Yazzie hit him multiple times during the attack.
Victim Called 911
Despite suffering serious injuries, the victim managed to call 911 after the assault.
According to investigators, the emergency recording captured additional evidence.
The affidavit states that while the victim was speaking with dispatchers, a male voice could be heard in the background asking:
“Are you calling the cops?”
Police identified that voice as Yazzie.
Elderly Man Suffered Severe Injuries
Emergency responders transported the victim to a hospital because of the seriousness of his injuries.
According to investigators, doctors diagnosed him with:
- Multiple facial fractures
- Brain bleeds caused by blunt force trauma
The victim remained hospitalized for more than two months while receiving treatment.
Despite medical care, he later died from complications related to those injuries.
Police Say Suspect Did Not Claim Self-Defense
During the investigation, detectives interviewed Yazzie about the incident.
According to the arrest affidavit, Yazzie did not claim that he acted in self-defense.
Investigators also allege Yazzie acknowledged that he understood the victim was elderly.
The affidavit states that Yazzie admitted he realized striking an older person could cause serious injury or even death.
Murder Charge Filed
Following the victim’s death, prosecutors upgraded the case and charged Yazzie with second-degree murder.
Authorities allege the fatal injuries were directly connected to the assault that occurred during the dispute over the unpaid utility bill.
Held on $1 Million Bond
Court records show Yazzie is currently being held on a $1 million bond as the criminal case proceeds.
The investigation into the fatal assault remains ongoing, and prosecutors will continue pursuing the second-degree murder charge in Arizona court.
