PHOENIX — A former University of Arizona graduate student, Murad Dervish, was sentenced to life imprisonment without the possibility of parole for the on-campus murder of a professor in 2022. Dervish, 48, who also received an additional 14-year sentence, was found guilty of first-degree murder following the fatal shooting of Thomas Meixner, the head of the university’s Department of Hydrology and Atmospheric Sciences.
The tragic incident unfolded on October 5, 2022, when Dervish, a barred student due to previous disciplinary action, entered the campus and fatally shot Meixner. Beyond the murder charge, Dervish faced a slew of other convictions last month including aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, burglary, and three counts of endangerment, reflecting a pattern of threatening behavior toward campus staff and faculty that had persisted for over a year.
Legal proceedings highlighted the extensive precursors to the crime, with the prosecution in Pima County presenting evidence of threatening emails and plans targeting Meixner, which they argued demonstrated the premeditated nature of the murder. Defense arguments painted a different picture, claiming Dervish suffered from severe mental health issues that impaired his ability to discern right from wrong.
The emotional weight of the case was palpable during sentencing as Meixner’s family testified about their profound loss. Family members, including Meixner’s wife, son, and sisters, voiced a united request for the maximum sentence of life without parole, underscoring the irreplaceable void left by Meixner’s death.
Sean Meixner, one of Thomas’s sons, expressed deep sorrow and anger toward Dervish in court, noting the enduring impact of his father’s absence. Celina Ramirez, speaking on behalf of the university, described the slain professor as a revered scholar and mentor, emphasizing the broader impact his death has had on the university community’s morale and sense of safety.
Criticism was also directed at the University of Arizona during the proceedings, with Meixner’s sister Margaret condemning the institution and its police force for their failure to protect her brother despite the known threats. This sentiment echoed findings from independent and internal reports which criticized the university for inadequate risk management and safety protocols—issues the institution has pledged to address through comprehensive security enhancements post-incident.
As the court session concluded, Dervish, despite objections from his attorney, made a statement apologizing to the Meixner family, though contesting the fairness of his trial. These remarks were met with assurances from Judge Howard Fell that the trial procedures could be subject to further review.
Following the sentencing, the Pima County Attorney’s Office issued a statement underscoring their commitment to pursue “red flag” legislation—a legal framework intended to prevent potentially dangerous individuals from possessing firearms. This initiative, backed by Democratic Attorney General Kris Mayes, aligns with wider efforts to implement gun safety reforms in the wake of ongoing national discussions about gun violence and public safety.
The case has mobilized community and legislative advocacy focused on enhancing campus safety and addressing broader systemic issues related to mental health, security protocols, and gun control, reflecting a continued pursuit for justice and reform spurred by a devastating act of violence.