WEST HAVEN, Utah— Detectives have determined that the tragic deaths of a 32-year-old woman and her three children in West Haven earlier this week were murder-suicide.
The West Haven mother allegedly shot her three children, ages four, two, and one, before shooting herself. It is unknown when the rounds were fired, but authorities believe the shooting occurred Sunday night or Monday morning.
According to Lt. Terence Lavely of the Weber County Sheriff’s Office, based on video and physical evidence, as well as testimonials from eyewitnesses and family members, no one else was involved in their deaths.
According to the family’s statement, they were unaware of the mother’s mental problems and always considered her as a loving mother. Her and her children’s unexpected deaths came as a great shock.
“We do not know the exact reasons why this tragedy occurred, and we deeply regret it,” the family said in part. “We wish no one ever had to experience this anguish. As a result, we ask everyone who is going through a tough moment to get help; please do not hide your grief. Speak up and believe that you can overcome any issue.
Lavely stated that the whole crime scene was contained within the car, which was parked outside a West Haven home around 1800 South and Prevdel Drive.
The bodies of four people were discovered shortly before 10 p.m. on September 3. Deputies arrived at the site and determined that the mother and three children were “beyond help.”
According to Lavely, the investigation into the fatalities is still underway as police try to figure out why they occurred. According to reports, the inquiry would entail both interviews and the download of cell phone records.
“Our condolences go out to the family of the deceased,” Lavely told reporters. “Our hearts also go out to Weber County deputies, Roy City Police Officers, CSI, and detectives who responded to this horrific scene and continue to work this ongoing investigation.”
According to Lavely, this is the Weber County Sheriff’s Office’s second child fatality in as many months, and the department’s 11th child death scene in 2024.
