PHOENIX (KTVK/KPHO/Gray News) – The mothers of two Arizona high schoolers who were killed while on a camping trip in May are speaking out after the arrest of a suspect, saying the darkness of their murders will not overshadow the light and joy they brought to the world.
The Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office announced Thursday that 31-year-old Thomas Brown was arrested in connection to the deaths of 18-year-old Pandora Kjolsrud and 17-year-old Evan Clark. The two Arcadia High School students were found dead May 27 while camping in the Mount Ord area of the Tonto National Forest.
The past four months have been a nightmare for the victims’ mothers, who spoke with Arizona’s Family just hours after learning the suspected killer is behind bars. While Simone Kjolsrud, Pandora’s mom, was focused on justice, Evan Clark’s mom, Sandra Sweeney, says she feels at peace knowing the suspect can’t harm again.
“My daughter, Pandora, was a beautiful, brilliant light in this world. She was so full of life and joy and love,” Simone Kjolsrud said. “I will forever be grateful for their tireless efforts to bring justice for my daughter. She deserves justice.”…