A man convicted of killing his estranged wife and two young children on Christmas Day in Arizona has been sentenced to death nearly eight years after the tragic murders shocked the community.
Arizona Man Sentenced To Death For Christmas Day Murders
According to the Maricopa County Attorney’s Office, Anthony Milan Ross was officially sentenced to death on May 7, 2026.
Ross was convicted on multiple charges, including:
- Three counts of first-degree murder
- Two counts of aggravated assault
- 18 additional aggravated assault charges
In addition to the death sentence, the court also sentenced him to 18 years in prison for the assault-related convictions.
Mother And Two Children Killed On Christmas Day
Authorities said the murders happened on Christmas Day in 2017.
According to prosecutors, Ross’ estranged wife, Iris Ross, went to his apartment to pick up their two children — 11-year-old Nigel and 8-month-old Anora.
Investigators said an argument began in the apartment parking lot after Iris reportedly told Ross she did not want to reconcile or continue the relationship.
Police said Ross then shot Iris multiple times as she attempted to run away.
Afterward, authorities believe he returned to the apartment and fatally shot both children.
Family Member Received Disturbing Text Message
Court records revealed that Iris Ross’ sister later contacted police after receiving a text message from Ross.
According to reports, the message claimed he had killed Iris and the children.
Her sister later told investigators she believed Ross had a “dark side” and considered him emotionally unstable, though she never imagined the situation would become so violent.
Hours-Long Police Standoff Followed
After the shootings, police surrounded the apartment complex while Ross allegedly threatened officers and refused to surrender.
Authorities said the standoff lasted for several hours.
Investigators reported that Ross warned officers he would kill the children if police entered the apartment.
When officers eventually moved in, Ross allegedly fired multiple rounds at law enforcement before finally running out of ammunition.
No officers were killed during the confrontation.
Defense Claimed Ross Was Depressed And Drinking
During the trial, prosecutors argued Ross was motivated by anger over the divorce filing made by Iris Ross about six months before the murders.
The defense team reportedly argued the killings were not premeditated and claimed Ross had been struggling with depression and alcohol use at the time.
Despite those arguments, the jury unanimously agreed on the death penalty.
Social Media Video Drew Attention After Trial
Reports noted that Ross previously worked as a vegan chef and motivational speaker.
Investigators also revealed that just one day before the murders, Ross reportedly posted an Instagram video featuring himself and his son singing “Santa Claus Is Coming to Town.”
The video later gained attention due to the tragic events that followed less than 24 hours later.
Case Leaves Lasting Impact On Community
The heartbreaking murders deeply affected family members and the Arizona community, especially because the killings happened on Christmas Day and involved two young children.
The sentencing marks the final stage of a long legal process that lasted several years after the 2017 tragedy.
