Bio

Refugio Macias was born in 1886. He lived in the United States, specifically in Arizona. Refugio became involved with a woman named Paula Medina. She was the niece of Pedro Ornelas, a man who would later be connected to a critical event in Macias's life. At some point before January 17, 1929, Refugio began to pursue Paula. His intentions were not welcomed, which led to tension between him and Paula's family.

On the evening of January 17, 1929, Refugio followed Paula home. At this time, Paula's sister warned him to leave her alone. This incident caused more conflict, and later that night, Refugio was seen with a pistol.

This behavior escalated as he returned to Paula's home late that night, trying to force his way inside. The events that unfolded were closely tied to his feelings of rejection and anger, which would lead him to take drastic actions. However, these actions did not come until the early morning of January 18, 1929, when he committed acts that would ultimately define his future.

Murder Story

Refugio Macias was involved in a series of violent events that took place on January 17, 1929, in Greenlee County, Arizona. On that day, he had been trying to pursue a romantic interest, Paula Medina. She was the niece of Pedro Ornelas, one of the victims. Earlier in the evening, there was a conflict when Paula's sister told Macias to stop bothering her.

Later that night, around 7:30 PM, Macias shot and injured Antonio Lerma, who was Paula's boyfriend. He also fired a shot at Cepriana Delgado, who was Paula's brother-in-law. Shortly after these incidents, Macias attempted to break into the home of Cepriana Delgado, armed with a gun. People inside recognized his voice as he tried to gain entry.

After leaving and returning around 1:00 AM, Macias forcefully tried to enter through the doors and windows. Pedro Ornelas and Julian De Luna, both uncles of Paula, came out to investigate the commotion. Macias then shot them both. Evidence showed that neither Ornelas nor De Luna were armed during this encounter.

Macias had prepared for his escape before the killings by packing a suitcase and leaving it with a friend. He was arrested by the Sheriff’s office at about 3:00 AM on January 18, 1929, while traveling between Morenci and Clifton. At the time of his arrest, he still possessed the gun used in the murders of Pedro Ornelas and Julian De Luna.

Macias faced trial for his actions. He was executed by hanging on March 7, 1930.