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Murder suspect Andrew Thomas Lauro initial appearance

One of two men charged in a double slaying that shook a Surprise retirement community last year has made a guilty plea in the case.

Andrew Thomas Lauro, 26, pleaded guilty to two counts of first-degree murder Friday in Maricopa County Superior Court.

Barbara Leslie, 70, and her 75-year-old friend, Ruth Schwed, were slain in Leslie’s home in Sun City Grand on Feb. 9, 2016. The women had been shot. Schwed was visiting from Albuquerque.

As part of the plea deal, Lauro also admitted guilt to one count of armed robbery. A theft charge was dropped. 

The trial for his co-defendant, Montez Lavell Wright III, is scheduled to begin Sept. 19.

The court has ordered all documents regarding the case to be sealed. 

Lauro’s sentencing is set for June 5.

READ MORE:

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Surprise murders: 2 senior women were victims of chance, opportunity

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