Arizona Man Dies by Suicide Ahead of Sentencing in Daughter’s Death
Christopher Scholtes, 38, an Arizona resident who had pleaded guilty to charges related to the death of his 2-year-old daughter, died by suicide early Wednesday morning, just days before his scheduled sentencing.
Authorities discovered Scholtes at his home after he failed to appear in court; he had been facing up to 30 years in prison, with sentencing set for November 21.
Last month, Scholtes admitted to second-degree murder and intentional child abuse likely to cause death or serious physical injury.
These charges stemmed from the tragic death of his daughter, Parker Scholtes, on July 9, 2024, during a day when temperatures soared to 109 degrees.
Investigators reported that Scholtes left Parker alone in a vehicle for over three hours while he engaged in personal activities, including watching pornography, playing video games, and exchanging text messages with his wife. His other two children, ages 9 and 5, told authorities that leaving children unattended in the car was a recurring pattern.
Parker’s mother, a physician, returned home around 4 p.m. to find her daughter unresponsive inside the car. Text messages sent to Scholtes beforehand repeatedly warned him not to leave the children unattended.
The Maricopa County Medical Examiner’s Office is conducting an autopsy, with results expected in approximately three months.
Conclusion
This heartbreaking case highlights the devastating consequences of neglect and underscores the critical importance of vigilant child safety. While Scholtes’ death prevents formal legal closure, Parker’s tragic loss serves as a stark reminder of the responsibilities caregivers bear and the irreversible harm that can result from inattention.