In West Valley City, Utah, police investigators suspect that a man shot and killed his family, including his wife, two daughters aged 2 and 9, and an 11-year-old son, before taking his own life. The only survivor, a 17-year-old boy, was found critically wounded with a gunshot to the head in the garage by a concerned family member who went to check on the family. The boy is unable to communicate with police due to severe brain injury.
The shootings are believed to have occurred sometime over the weekend, with the handgun used in the incident found near the father’s body. There is no history of domestic violence in the family, and no note was left behind to indicate a motive for the tragic events. As of now, investigators do not have information regarding why the father committed the murder-suicide, and it is possible that the reason may never be known.
Autopsies will be conducted to determine the official cause of death and provide more information on the timeline of events. The family member who discovered the scene had been in regular contact with the family and became alarmed when communication ceased. If anyone is in crisis or needs support, they can reach out to the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline by calling, texting, or chatting online for help.
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