The Deck: Alfonso McCoy Jr. & Debra Gomez (Queen of Clubs, Arizona)

Host: audiochuck

Introduction

In this compelling episode of The Deck, host audiochuck delves into the tragic and unsolved murders of Alfonso McCoy Jr. and Debra Gomez, affectionately known as the "Queen of Clubs" from Arizona. Utilizing investigative journalism and collaboration with law enforcement and the victims' families, audiochuck seeks to shed light on one of Phoenix's coldest cases, hoping that new listeners might hold the key to bringing justice to Alfonso and Debra.

The Murder of Alfonso McCoy Jr. & Debra Gomez

On February 21, 2001, Debra Gomez, a 41-year-old woman, and her 32-year-old boyfriend, Alfonso McCoy Jr., were found murdered in their Phoenix home. The discovery was made by Debra's son, Raymond Navarrete, who arrived at his mother's house to find both cars in the driveway—a rare occurrence since both Debra and Alfonso typically worked during the day.

Detective Mark Nunley describes the initial scene:

“When he approached the door, the door was locked. But he noticed the window, which is right next to the front door, was broken and that a large panel of it was removed so somebody could have easily climbed into the house through the window.” ([02:32])

Inside, the atmosphere was unsettling. Debra's usually outdoor dog was found inside the house, displaying uncharacteristic aggression towards strangers, indicating that the perpetrator was known to the couple.

Debra's niece, Becca, shared her perspective on the dog’s behavior:

“He was a great dog.” ([14:20])

“He was scary, aggressive. If he didn't know you, it was scary. So whoever was in that house, whoever did that, he knew and he loved because no way.” ([14:23])

Initial Investigation

Upon entering the house, Raymond and his friend Michael noticed unusual signs: legal papers strewn across the hallway and BB guns misplaced around the home. The absence of any signs of struggle suggested a swift and targeted attack.

Detective Nunley elaborates on the evidence found:

“There wasn't any sign of a struggle, that there was any positioning of the bodies. They were in bed or likely when they got shot.” ([06:40])

Autopsy results revealed that both victims were shot in the face, with Alfonso sustaining a gunshot wound to his forehead and Debra having an exit wound at the back of her head. The presence of only two shell casings, yet evidence pointing to three gunshots, raised suspicions about the number of attackers involved.

Theories Emerged

1. Ex-Boyfriend Henry

The first theory centered around an ex-boyfriend named Henry, who had a history of violent offenses, including aggravated assault with a deadly weapon. Henry’s tumultuous relationship with Debra provided a potential motive. However, Henry denied any involvement, maintaining that he had no recent contact with Debra beyond occasional letters during her custody of Henry in prison. Debbie's sister, Becky, expressed strong disbelief in this theory:

“I knew they can't accuse him of that.” ([06:22])

2. Financial Motives

Another angle considered was a financial dispute related to Debra's late mother's will. There were conflicting accounts about the distribution of the house and inheritance, with suspicions falling on a family friend, Gale, as a potential orchestrator aiming to seize the property. Yet, this theory was quickly debunked by Becky, who clarified:

“There was no money to be had when everything was said and done. I think I got $1,000 when they sold the house and paid for what they needed to pay for. So, yeah, there was nothing.” ([19:08])

Emerging Gang-Related Theory

A more compelling theory emerged months after the murders, linking the case to gang activity. It was revealed that Debra had possibly provided a tip to law enforcement regarding her son Raymond's involvement with gang associates. This would have made Debra a target for retaliation.

Detective Nunley discusses this development:

“Family had mentioned... Debbie had recently made... received some money from giving this tip to the police. There was suspicion that this was some associates of Raymond.” ([20:47])

Raymond’s own associations with gang-related activities brought another suspect into focus—Victor, a friend involved in prior shootings. Alfonso, unaware of his own peril, was likely an unintended victim caught in the crossfire.

Alfonso's mother, Muriel, warned Alfonso about the dangers:

“He knew, you know, he loved Debbie, but he knew this situation in this environment is not for him. And so he was a week too late, basically.” ([22:59])

Investigative Impasse and Re-examination

Initial investigations stalled due to conflicting testimonies and insufficient evidence. Raymond Navarrete, who first discovered the bodies, became evasive and uncooperative, particularly after being arrested for unrelated charges. Detective Nunley highlighted inconsistencies in Raymond’s statements, increasing suspicions about his involvement or knowledge of the murders.

Detective Nunley remarked:

“It doesn't seem likely that Raymond would have committed the murders by his own hand. I think they believed that his involvement with gang associates brought the wrong people into the family's lives.” ([25:24])

Advancements in forensic technology years later provided a glimmer of hope. DNA evidence on a wooden dowel and other items from the scene were revisited using modern techniques, potentially unearthing new leads that were previously unattainable.

The Search for Justice

Despite renewed efforts, breakthroughs have remained elusive. The deckcast team attempted to engage with Debra and Alfonso's children, Jenna and Raymond, but met resistance. Detective Nunley continues to pursue the case, revisiting evidence and seeking any new information that could resolve the mystery.

“We're able to separate some of those profiles depending on this type of sample.” ([28:37])

Impact on Loved Ones

The heartbreaking loss of Alfonso and Debra has left an indelible mark on their families. Alfonso's relatives carry his ashes with them daily as a solemn reminder of their loss, while Debra's niece, Becca, shares the deep emotional scars left by the tragedy.

Muriel, Alfonso's mother, poignantly describes the perpetual void left by her son's death:

“If you were close to them that you will ever have... It's like somebody cutting off your arm. You always remember you had an arm.” ([30:11])

Call to Action

The Deck urges anyone with information regarding the murders of Alfonso McCoy Jr. and Debra Gomez to come forward. Anonymous tips can be made through Silent Witness at 480-948-6377 or 1-800-343-TIPS, or via their website silentwitness.org.

Conclusion

This episode of The Deck not only recounts the tragic and unresolved case of Alfonso and Debra but also underscores the enduring quest for justice by their families and the investigative community. As technology advances and attention is renewed, there remains hope that this cold case will eventually be solved, bringing peace to those left behind.

Produced by The Deck with Emusic by Ryan Lewis. To learn more about The Deck and its advocacy work, visit thedeckpodcast.com.