Scottsdale police arrest suspect in nightclub death

Scottsdale Police have arrested a suspect in the stabbing death of a former Arizona State University football player.

Ian MacDonald, 26, of Tempe, the focus of the investigation, was arrested Wednesday evening, Scottsdale authorities said.

MacDonald was charged in the death of Tyrice Thompson, 27, who worked security at Martini Ranch nightclub. The confrontation occurred in the parking lot.

Thompson was stabbed five times in the back, hip and arm on Jan. 27. MacDonald had also been in custody regarding the case last week.

MacDonald’s girlfriend, Samantha King, of Gilbert, was also arrested for assault and hindering prosecution.

MacDonald had told investigators that while he had been involved in the parking lot fight with Thompson, he had not stabbed the victim.

Thompson died at a Scottsdale hospital Feb. 2.