
A tragic discovery in West Haven, Utah, has left a community in shock as a woman and three young children were found dead in a parked car.
At a Glance
- A 32-year-old woman and three children (ages 4, 2, and 1) were found dead in a car in West Haven, Utah.
- Authorities state they don’t suspect there is any ongoing threat to public safety.
- The incident was reported by a family member on Tuesday night.
- The investigation is ongoing, with multiple agencies involved.
- Neighbors describe the victims as friendly and happy.
Tragic Discovery in West Haven
On Tuesday night, just before 10 p.m., a family member made a chilling 911 call that led authorities to a horrific scene in West Haven, Utah. A 32-year-old woman and three young children – a 4-year-old boy, a 2-year-old girl, and a 1-year-old girl – were found dead inside a vehicle parked in the driveway of a home. The Weber County Sheriff’s Office said that all four victims showed signs of gunshot trauma.
The incident occurred in a quiet neighborhood near Ogden, north of Salt Lake City. Authorities have not released the names of the victims, and the exact relationship between the woman and the children is still being determined. The bodies have been transported to the Utah Office of the Medical Examiner for further investigation.
A woman and her three children were found shot to death in a car in Utah. Authorities said they do not believe there is any ongoing threat to the public but haven't said what they believe happened. https://t.co/63fqkxeUoR
— CBS News (@CBSNews) September 4, 2024
Investigation Underway
The Weber County Sheriff’s Office, in collaboration with Weber-Metro CSI and the Weber-Morgan Homicide Task Force, is leading the investigation. While evidence of gunshot trauma was found, the official cause of death is still under investigation. Authorities are awaiting autopsy results to provide more definitive answers.
“More information will be provided when we figure out who’s related to who,” said WCSO Lt. Colby Ryan.
Notably, authorities have stated that they do not believe there is any ongoing threat to public safety. One report indicated that no one has been arrested as of this time and authorities are not looking for a suspect. No information has been provided regarding the recovery of a weapon from the scene.
Community in Shock
The tragic event has left the West Haven community reeling. Neighbors and family members have expressed their shock and disbelief at the loss of what they described as a happy and friendly family. Darren King, the next-door neighbor of the victims, spoke highly of the woman, describing her as “happy” and “outgoing.” He added that the children were “fun to be around.”
Another neighbor, Amber Nicholas, called the situation “extremely tragic” and said she wished she could have done something “for the kids.”
A WSCO statement read, “Our hearts go out to the families of the deceased. We are proud of and thankful for the deputies who responded to this call, and all the investigators working to find answers to the many questions that remain.”
It was revealed that the woman had recently moved back to live with her father after her mother passed away in the summer. Neighbors recalled seeing the family often having gatherings, painting a picture of a close-knit family unit.
A Call for Information and Support
As the investigation continues, authorities are urging anyone with information to come forward. The Weber County Sheriff’s Office has asked that any relevant information be reported to Weber Area Dispatch or the Weber County Sheriff’s Office Investigations Bureau.
This tragic incident serves as a somber reminder of the importance of community vigilance and support. For those feeling hopeless or in crisis, resources such as the 988 lifeline and the SafeUT app are available. As the community grapples with this loss, it is crucial to remember that help is always within reach.
Sources
- Woman and her 3 young children found shot to death in a car in Utah
- Neighbors in shock after seemingly ‘super happy’ woman, children found dead
- Woman, 3 young kids found shot, dead inside vehicle in West Haven
- ‘Sweetest people;’ Woman, 3 children found dead outside West Haven home