Today’s related article: Tombstone Vigilante Performer Shot, Real Bullets Found In Gun
On Wednesday July 9, 2014 at approximately 1:16 pm, the Cochise County Sheriff’s Office was advised of a shooting which had just occurred in the Tombstone area. The Tombstone Marshal’s Office requested the assistance of the Sheriff’s Office in this investigation.
Sheriff’s Deputies responded and discovered 74 year old Leroy Colomy who was deceased in front of a residence on Safford Street between 6th and 7th Streets. Leroy Colomy has been a beloved part of the Birdcage Theater staff for over 20 years. The initial investigation reveals that the victim was at the residence on Safford Street when he was approached by 60 year old Barry Chappell in front of the home.
A verbal altercation followed before Chappell reportedly drew a handgun and shot the victim multiple times before leaving the scene in his vehicle. The suspect reportedly drove to the corner of 6th and Allen Street where he went into an establishment and asked the clerk to call 9-1-1 because he had just shot someone. The suspect then began walking on Allen Street before being contacted by the Tombstone Marshal and taken into custody without incident.
Barry Chappell has been booked into the Cochise County Jail on one count of 1st degree murder. The investigation is being continued by the Cochise County Sheriff’s Office.