Sheriff Dept press release re: Update/Correction on Murder-Suicide

(Murphys, CA) On February 2, 2013 Calaveras County Sheriff’s deputies and investigators investigated a double murder-suicide that occurred at a residence on the 1200 block of Sandalwood Drive in the Forest Meadows subdivision, Murphys. The investigation revealed that Phillip Randolph Marshall (54) took the life of his two children before taking his own life with a Glock 9mm semi-automatic handgun. It was further determined that Phillip Marshall’s son and daughter, Alex Marshall (17) and Macaila Marshall (14), were asleep on the couch at the time they were shot. Foul play by outside persons has been ruled out, and evidence at the scene confirmed that Phillip Marshall was the shooter. The time of death is still being examined.

On February 4, 2013 while conducting follow-up investigations into this incident the Sheriff’s Office learned that the Marshall family had prior law enforcement contacts with the Calaveras County Sheriff’s Office (CCSO).


In November 2008 Phillip Marshall filed a crime report with CCSO against his estranged wife Sean Marshall for burglary. In December 2008 Sean Marshall and her sister, Erin Chamberlain, filed a complaint with CCSO against Phillip Marshall for battery. According to reports, Phillip became involved in an argument with Erin outside of Sean Marshall’s residence in Murphys. The argument stemmed from Phillip wanting to see his daughter, Macaila. During the argument Phillip allegedly slapped Erin in the face. Phillip Marshall was ultimately arrested and booked into the Calaveras County jail on the charges of battery, disturbing the peace, and annoying/harassing phone calls.

This investigation is on-going. The reason for the murder-suicide is still being examined. Additional information will be released as appropriate, and when it becomes available.

The students of Bret Harte High School will be hosting a candlelight vigil on Wednesday, February 6th at 7:00 pm on the “quad” at the high school. A memorial will also be held on Saturday, February 9th at 11:00 am at the football stadium to honor the lives of Alex and Macaila Marshall. The student body and staff of Bret Harte High School extend an invitation to join them in the candlelight vigil and memorial service.