by A 15-year-old Utah girl’s life was cut short in a tragic shooting that has left her community heartbroken. Police say her 16-year-old boyfriend allegedly shot her at point-blank range in her own bedroom before fleeing the scene early Saturday morning.
Authorities in Ogden, Utah, identified the victim as Chanelle Alvarez, a bright and spirited teenager described by loved ones as “full of life” and “a light to everyone around her.” The accused shooter, Hezekiah Plummer, now faces serious adult charges, including first-degree murder, obstruction of justice, and theft of a firearm.
The Tragic Shooting in Ogden
The shooting occurred around 3 a.m. Saturday, when family members awoke to the sound of a gunshot inside their home. Rushing to check on Chanelle, a relative reportedly came face-to-face with Plummer, who was leaving the house. According to court documents, Plummer tried to deflect suspicion by mentioning a “robbery” and naming someone else he claimed was involved before fleeing the scene with the weapon.
When officers arrived, they found Chanelle dead from a gunshot wound to the head in her bedroom. Police believe the shot was fired from close range.
Just a few hours later, Plummer was located and arrested in a neighboring county. Reports from KSL and Fox 13 indicate that the 16-year-old was found with over $4,000 in cash and several ounces of marijuana. Investigators allege that he disposed of the firearm before his arrest.
A Troubled Relationship
According to Alvarez’s mother, Plummer had often stayed overnight at their home and was familiar with the family. He had reportedly arrived around 1 a.m. that morning, just two hours before the shooting. Authorities are still investigating the motive, though family members have suggested the incident may have stemmed from domestic violence.
“Our hearts are shattered as we share the absolutely heartbreaking loss of Chanelle,” read a message on a GoFundMe page set up to support funeral costs. “She had a beautiful and feisty spirit and a contagious laugh that could light up any room.”
The family’s statement also addressed the broader issue of relationship violence, urging others to recognize warning signs early.
“This is something no child, no family, should ever have to endure,” the Alvarez family wrote.
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Remembering Chanelle
Friends, family, and community members have gathered to mourn the young teen’s loss. Chanelle was an active member of the Good Shepherd Lutheran Church in Ogden, where she attended summer camps and volunteered with other youth programs.
“She was an absolutely spectacular young woman – so much life,” said Pastor Jeff Stephenson of Good Shepherd Church. “Always had a smile on her face, every interaction I had with her. She was caring and compassionate towards other people and had a curiosity about life that was unmatched.”
The church has since opened its doors for memorial services and counseling for grieving teens.
A Community Demanding Justice
Prosecutors have confirmed that Plummer will be tried as an adult, citing the severity of the crime. If convicted, he faces a potential life sentence. The case has reignited discussions about youth violence, gun safety, and the need for better domestic violence awareness programs among teens.
For now, Ogden mourns a young girl with big dreams — a student, a daughter, and a friend whose life ended far too soon.
If you or someone you know is experiencing dating or domestic violence, reach out to the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233 or visit thehotline.org.
What do you think communities can do to better prevent tragedies like this? Share your thoughts at race-day-live.com.
