Alva Parsons, aged 64, from Sandy Creek, has been convicted of the murder of Charles W. Rothenburg, aged 29, also from Sandy Creek, following a six-day trial, according to prosecutors.
Troopers stated that Rothenburg and his girlfriend were residing in a camping trailer on the property adjacent to Parsons’ residence when he passed away.
A physical altercation occurred between Rothenburg and Parsons inside Parsons’ residence. According to authorities, during the altercation, Parsons discharged a firearm, resulting in Rothenburg sustaining a gunshot wound to the neck on June 27, 2022. Tragically, Rothenburg lost his life when a bullet became lodged in his brain.
Prosecutors allege that Parsons concealed Rothenburg’s body beneath a stack of clothing. According to prosecutors, he allegedly made threats towards an eyewitness who tried to leave her residence.
Authorities received a call requesting a welfare check for Rothenburg, according to troopers. After an extensive two-day search, authorities received a tip indicating that he might be located at 5863 State Route 11, inside Parsons’ home.
Despite facing years of addiction, Rothenburg was making progress in his recovery, according to his sister Amanda Rothenburg. According to her, he was dedicated to enhancing his life in order to be there for his three young sons. The ages of his children are 1, 3, and 9 years old as per Syracuse News.
Parsons has been convicted by a jury on multiple charges, including second-degree murder, second-degree criminal possession of a weapon, tampering with physical evidence, and first-degree coercion, according to prosecutors. Prosecutors have stated that he could potentially face a sentence of 25 years to life in prison. The sentencing date has been set for August 2.