Unnecessary steps are always a red flag. I remember the AA executive who was gunned down while on a walk with his wife. The suspect allegedly took the time to duct tape her, before attempting to steal her jewelry.
I called BS on the story right away, as that's just not how crimes like that are committed. The alleged gunman actually viewed the websleuths thread, and knew people weren't buying what he was selling. He commented to the victim's wife (who was an accomplice), something to the effect of "I wish I hadn't read that..."
The difference here is the phone thing may have an explanation that isn't all that weird (broke when thrown, dropped, or accidentally run over).
At the same time though, I'm waiting for more information until I'm absolutely sold on the official narrative.