Karen Price Vows to Be Present as Aaron Gunches Faces Execution for Her Brother’s Murder

In a significant legal development, Arizona is set to execute Aaron Gunches on March 19, marking the state’s first execution in over two years. Gunches has been sentenced to death for his role in the kidnapping and murder of Ted Price, a crime that took place in 2002. This execution is not merely a point of legal interest; it resonates deeply with Price’s family, particularly his sister, Karen Price, who intends to witness the execution.

Karen Price plans to travel from the East Coast to Florence, Arizona, for this somber occasion. Her decision stems from a feeling of obligation to her brother and the family he left behind. She stated, “I feel like I have to see this through. I have to be there for Ted. Representing the family for this last action.”

Karen’s memories of her brother highlight his kindness and compassion. In 2002, Ted ventured to Arizona to assist his ex-wife, Kat, who was struggling with addiction and neglecting her two children. His actions to protect his family led to tragic consequences. When Ted threatened to involve Child Protective Services, Kat reached out to her drug dealer, Aaron Gunches, for help. Gunches responded by taking Ted into the desert and ending his life.

Kat was never charged in relation to Ted’s murder, but Gunches was convicted and sentenced to death. After 23 years on death row, he has waived multiple appeals, making his time served relatively brief compared to others on death row.

As the execution date approaches, Karen reflects on the broader implications of this ordeal. She empathizes with other families affected by similar tragedies, describing the relentless pain that follows the loss of a loved one. “I have sympathy for all of the families that have to go through this,” she shared. Her poignant remarks challenge advocates of the anti-death penalty movement: “Walk a mile in my shoes,” she asserts, emphasizing the complex emotions experienced by victims’ families.