Phoenix, Arizona – A former University of Arizona graduate student was sentenced to life imprisonment without the possibility of parole for the 2022 murder of a university professor. The tragic incident that unfolded on campus saw Murad Dervish, 48, convicted of first-degree murder for fatally shooting Thomas Meixner, then head of the Department of Hydrology and Atmospheric Sciences.
The court handed down the life sentence to Dervish on Monday, additionally imposing a 14-year sentence for related charges, including aggravated assault, burglary, and endangerment. This ruling follows Dervish’s expulsion from the university prior to the incident, during which he had been barred from campus grounds due to threatening behavior towards faculty and staff.
Prosecutors detailed how Dervish’s animosity culminated in a premeditated attack, evidenced by threatening emails and plans that emerged weeks before the fatal event. In the lead-up to the tragedy, Dervish was noted to have harassed and issued threats to multiple university staff members.
Throughout the trial, contrasting portraits of Dervish emerged. His defense argued he was suffering from severe mental health issues, asserting he was unable to distinguish right from wrong. However, the prosecution maintained that the murder was a calculated act, highlighting the detailed preparation undertaken by Dervish.
During the emotional sentencing hearing, members of Meixner’s family shared their profound grief and loss. They unanimously urged the court to impose a life sentence without parole, describing Meixner as a generous individual and an esteemed academic leader whose contributions had markedly advanced the university’s hydrology program.
Sean Meixner, the son of the deceased, expressed his deep sorrow and anger towards Dervish, speaking poignantly about the enduring pain of his father’s absence. Celina Ramirez, representing the university’s interests, echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the impact Meixner’s death has had on the community’s mental health and overall campus atmosphere.
The university community has been critical of the response to the threats leading up to the shooting, suggesting that earlier intervention might have prevented the tragedy. In response to these concerns, the university has since implemented several safety protocols and has settled a lawsuit with Meixner’s family amounting to $2.5 million.
Amid these proceedings, Dervish took the opportunity to express his regret over the incident, although he also criticized the fairness of his trial, claiming his legal representation was inadequate. He cited the lack of a venue change and purported biases as flaws in his trial process.
Moreover, the prosecutor announced intentions to propose “red flag” legislation, designed to prevent firearms access for individuals posing a risk to themselves or others. This legislative push aligns with calls from Meixner’s family for more stringent gun control measures and reflects ongoing discussions about community safety and gun laws.
As Dervish begins his life sentence, the community continues to wrestle with the ramifications of the tragedy, striving for healing and systemic changes to enhance security and mental health support on campus.