TUCSON, Ariz. (KVOA) - Christopher Scholtes, a Marana father who pleaded guilty to the murder of his 2-year-old daughter after leaving her in a hot car, took his own life just before he was set to be taken into custody.

Scholtes accepted a plea deal for second-degree murder and child abuse two weeks ago. As part of the deal, he was allowed to remain out of custody for two weeks before serving his sentence for the death of his daughter, 2-year-old Parker Scholtes, in July of last year.

News 4 Tucson’s Chief Investigative Reporter Chorus Nylander, who has been covering the case from the beginning, was the first to confirm Scholtes’ death. Nylander was present at Pima County Superior Court for Scholtes' hearing.

Laura Conover, Pima County Attorney, confirmed that Scholtes took his own life

See Full Page