In a devastating incident that has rocked the Cedar City community, law enforcement officials announced the arrest of four men suspected of involvement in the fatal shooting of 17-year-old KayLee Dutton late Friday night. The arrests mark a significant breakthrough in a case that has left residents grieving and searching for answers.
The Incident: A Chilling Pursuit Ends in Tragedy
The sequence of events leading to KayLee’s tragic death began on January 17, 2025, at approximately 10:42 p.m. According to Iron County Sheriff Ken Carpenter, a red pickup truck carrying two teenage girls was being pursued by another vehicle flashing its high beams. The pursuit began on Lund Highway, continued west along Midvalley Road, and culminated near the intersection of 4300 West, close to the Three Peaks Recreation Area.
Sheriff Carpenter recounted the horrifying moment when the suspect vehicle came alongside the red pickup and opened fire. “Several rounds were shot into the driver’s side of the vehicle, ultimately killing the driver,” Carpenter said. KayLee, who was driving, succumbed to her injuries shortly after being transported to Cedar City Hospital. Her passenger sustained a leg injury and remains under observation.
The Arrests: A Coordinated Effort
Less than 24 hours after the fatal shooting, Iron County Metro SWAT officers executed a search warrant at a townhome complex just west of Lund Highway. Three suspects were apprehended at approximately 2 p.m., with a fourth suspect arrested at his workplace later that afternoon. Sheriff Carpenter expressed confidence in the arrests, noting, “We feel pretty good we have our suspects.”
The four men taken into custody are:
- Ethan Galloway and Michael Hess-Witucki, both facing charges of second-degree felony murder, 12 counts of felony discharge of a firearm, marijuana possession, and possession of a dangerous weapon by a restricted person.
- Matthew Sorber-Petrie and Aldric Felipe, both charged with obstructing justice, marijuana possession, and weapon possession.
The Investigation: A Community Effort
Law enforcement continues to process evidence collected from the crime scene and surrounding areas. On Saturday, Iron County search and rescue teams employed metal detectors and search dogs to comb through fields near the intersection of Midvalley Road and Lund Highway, recovering at least one .223 caliber shell casing believed to be linked to the shooting.
Carpenter also highlighted the painstaking nature of the investigation, emphasizing the importance of connecting all the dots. “We need to process the apartment, the vehicle, and conduct thorough interviews,” he said. Detectives are also following up on numerous leads to ensure a comprehensive understanding of the events.
A Community in Mourning
Although law enforcement has not officially released the identity of the deceased, social media posts and crowdfunding campaigns have identified her as 17-year-old KayLee Dutton. A bright and vibrant young woman, KayLee’s untimely death has left an indelible mark on her family, friends, and the broader Cedar City community.
Vigils and tributes have poured in, with many describing her as a kind-hearted and promising young soul taken far too soon. A crowdfunding campaign has been established to support her family during this difficult time, though authorities advise consulting professionals for any charitable contributions.
The Legal Process Ahead
As of Sunday morning, formal charges against the suspects had not yet been filed in the 5th District Court. Sheriff Carpenter remains resolute in his pursuit of justice, stating, “I’m confident that we will bring the perpetrators of this crime to justice.”
The passenger of the red pickup, whose injuries remain under investigation, has yet to provide a formal statement. Sheriff Carpenter explained the decision to delay her interview, saying, “We want to give her time to recover from the trauma so we can get a detailed and accurate account of the events.”
Call for Change
This heartbreaking incident has sparked calls for increased attention to gun violence and public safety in Iron County. Community leaders and residents alike have expressed outrage and sorrow, urging authorities to take stronger measures to prevent such tragedies.
In a statement, a local advocate said, “This senseless act of violence reminds us of the fragility of life. We need to come together as a community to address the root causes of these crimes and ensure the safety of our children.”
Moving Forward
As investigators continue their work and the community mourns the loss of a promising young life, one sentiment prevails: justice must be served. The arrests represent a critical step in this process, but the road ahead will require vigilance, cooperation, and a commitment to uncovering the full truth.
KayLee Dutton’s memory now serves as a poignant reminder of the devastating consequences of violence and the urgent need for action to prevent future tragedies. The Cedar City community stands united in grief and determination, vowing to honor her life by seeking justice and fostering a safer future.
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