Hells Angels gang member gets life sentence for 2021 murder in Phoenix

PHOENIX — A member of the Hells Angels Motorcycle Club has been sentenced to spend the rest of his natural life in prison in connection with a 2021 gang-motivated killing, authorities said.

The Maricopa County Attorney’s Office said that 53-year-old Keith McCollough was convicted of first-degree murder and first-degree burglary.

McCollough joined armed gang members in breaking into an apartment near 23rd Avenue and West Rose Garden Lane in Phoenix following a confrontation earlier that evening, according to prosecutors.

Masked and armed, McCollough and his associates violently confronted the occupants, during which the victim, Richard “Ricky” Coss, was fatally shot through the heart.

DNA and physical evidence linked McCollough directly to the scene, prosecutors said. Additionally, witness testimony confirmed the attack was carried out in retaliation on behalf of the Hells Angels.

Maricopa County Attorney Rachel Mitchell said the motorcycle club pressured and intimidated witnesses throughout the investigation and trial.

“The Hells Angels want to rule through fear,” Mitchell said in a Tuesday announcement. “In Maricopa County, we do not bow to intimidation or outlaw motorcycle gangs.”

Two co-defendants have already pleaded guilty. Jimmy Lee Eslinger is serving a 16‑year prison sentence, while Carl Blazak is serving 10.5 years for their involvement in the murder, prosecutors said.

“This sentence sends a clear message that organized criminal violence will be met with organized justice,” Mitchell said. “I am proud of the prosecutors, detectives and especially the witnesses who stood strong against a culture of fear and helped bring the truth to light.”

Source: KTAR News