PHOENIX, ARIZONA – A 51-year-old man, Aaron Morse, is facing second-degree murder charges after police say he shot and killed his 74-year-old mother, Susan Morse, during an argument at their home on April 16, 2025.
What makes the case even more shocking is that Aaron reportedly called 911 himself, admitted to the shooting, and then asked dispatchers if he could “call the whole thing off” just minutes later.
The Strange 911 Call
According to court documents obtained by local outlets KTVK and KSAZ, the situation began with a 911 call placed by Aaron Morse in the afternoon.
He told dispatchers that something had happened but then changed his story, saying everything was fine and that his mother was simply in her pottery studio.
Despite his attempt to downplay the situation, police arrived shortly after and discovered Susan Morse with a gunshot wound to the head.
She was rushed to a nearby hospital but was pronounced dead soon after.
Suspect Admitted to Arguing Before Shooting
During the investigation, Aaron Morse admitted that he and his mother had been arguing before the shooting. He did not explain what the argument was about, and police noted a strong smell of alcohol on him at the scene.
Prosecutors said that Aaron has a history of alcohol use, and police noted blood on his hands and shoes when they arrested him.
He reportedly told police:
“Probably not. I have a heinous crime.”
This was in response to officers informing him that a judge would decide his future in court.
Evidence and Arrest
After allegedly shooting his mother, Aaron Morse unloaded the weapon, placed it inside Tupperware, and waited outside the house. He has since been charged with:
- Second-degree murder
- Tampering with evidence
Aaron Morse is currently being held at the Maricopa County Jail.