LAKE HAVASU CITY – The Lake Havasu City man who shot and killed his brother last fall will stand trial next month. Judge Billy Sipe has affirmed a Tuesday, July 15 trial start in the criminal case involving Justin Wilcox, 52.
Judge Sipe conducted a pre-trial final management conference in Kingman Monday with deputy county attorney James Schoppmann and defense attorney Jonathan Garner. They will use questionnaires to learn more about prospective jury members and any biases they might have before the panel is formally selected.
The deadly shooting occurred at about 10:55 p.m. last October 10, 2024 at the residence the brothers shared at 2172 Barranca Drive. The defendant allegedly armed himself and shot Phillip Wilcox, 50, after he allegedly mistook his brother as an intruder in their home.
The younger Wilcox died of a single gunshot to the chest following transport to Havasu Regional Medical Center. Police said possible alcohol impairment was a factor of focus early in the incident investigation.
Wilcox is charged with manslaughter. Attorneys have not yet determined if the jury will have the option of potentially convicting Wilcox of the lesser included offense of negligent homicide.
The lawyers informed the Court that they believe the trial will conclude by Friday, July 18, if not sooner.
Dave Hawkins
