Tempe haunted house closes after owner suffers stroke

For the first time in 26 years, the Stoudt family will not operate Terror Nights, a popular haunted house in Tempe. The closure comes after Richard Stoudt, 60, suffered a stroke in late September that left him unable to complete the annual attraction.

The couple has run the event since 2000. It began in 1990 when Richard and a friend built a maze using discarded appliances to hide from trick-or-treaters. By 2008, the setup had expanded to the backyard and included more than a dozen themed rooms. Over the years, Richard built over 50 distinct sets, including a morgue, a butcher shop, and scenes inspired by films like 'The Conjuring' and 'The Ring.'

In late September, Richard felt unwell while constructing this year's haunt. He slurred his words, which Darlene Stoudt noticed immediately. She took him to a hospital where he was released the same day. His condition worsened the next morning when he could no longer walk. Doctors determined he had suffered a stroke affecting his left side. He now uses a walker, and his left hand is still recovering. Doctors have told Darlene that his recovery could take months or longer.

Richard had finished three-quarters of the haunt before the stroke. The family considered letting their daughter, son-in-law, and grandchildren finish the build, but the couple decided against it. Darlene noted that Richard adds specific details that define the experience. 'It wouldn't feel right,' she said. 'Richard just adds all these little extra details that I don't think any of us could have done without him.'

The Stoudts recently dismantled the unfinished structure. A sign outside the home now informs visitors that the event was canceled due to a family emergency. Darlene posted the news on social media but worries some locals may still stop by. The property, which is nearly 7,000 square feet, usually features a graveyard in the front yard and a maze of rooms inside. This year, the yard is quiet.

The couple had already discussed scaling back the operation due to the physical demands on Richard. They hope to return in 2027, but that plan depends on his health. 'He is the glue for the whole thing,' Darlene said. The family remains hopeful that they can run the event for a few more years if his recovery progresses well.

Terror Nights has operated for 26 consecutive years. It has drawn thousands of visitors annually during Halloween week. Neighbors have occasionally complained about noise or traffic, leading the couple to pause for two years in 2009 and 2010. However, most residents have embraced the event. Darlene said she has seen children who visited as kids return years later as adults.

Darlene Stoudt said the decision was difficult because the haunt was a favorite activity for the couple. 'His health is more important,' she said. The family will spend the upcoming holiday at home, a change from the years of baking hundreds of cookies and managing the crowds.