Suspect arrested in Chandler LA Fitness murder case

CHANDLER, Ariz. (KSAZ) - It's a case that had police stumped for months as an 84-year-old man was killed outside of a gym in August.

Now, Chandler Police believe they've solved the case.

On August 18, 84-year-old Shivaswamy Hosakote was found stabbed to death inside his car at a gym parking lot near Warner and North Dobson Roads.

On February 28, Freddis Williams III was arrested for Hosakote's murder and police say the 24-year-old's fingerprints were found on the victim's vehicle.

Police first spoke with Williams on September 2 and it took until February 24 to get results from a Department of Public Safety crime lab to have enough for an arrest.

Williams was booked into the Maricopa County Jail on one count of 2nd degree murder.

According to Chandler Police, Williams is believed to have drug and domestic problems, and was reportedly in need of cash. Williams was arrested at Sky Harbor Airport on Tuesday, where he had reportedly just started a new job. The arrest was announced by Chandler Police Wednesday afternoon.

"In this case, detectives believe this was an isolated incident and a crime of opportunity," said Sergeant Daniel Mejia with Chandler Police.

The victim's neighbors in Mesa said they were saddened by the brutal crime, but the arrest of Williams on Tuesday brought some small measure of relief.

"I am really happy to hear it," said Jenny Stratton. "I was grieved for the family. I brought them something thoughtful. I am happy they can have a little more peace."