Family of 8 found dead in Utah home

Eight people, five of them minors, were found dead at a home in southwestern Utah with what authorities described Wednesday as apparent gunshot wounds.

Their bodies were discovered when officers in Enoch City, 178 miles northeast of Las Vegas, conducted a welfare check, a city spokesman said in a news release.

There were no suspects at large or threats to the public, according to the release, which added that the investigation continues and that more information would be released later.

Authorities have not publicly identified the victims.

Enoch City Manager Rob Dotson said in a video statement that the community is in pain.

A law enforcement official stands near the front door of the Enoch, Utah, home where eight family members were found dead from gunshot wounds
A law enforcement official stands near the front door of the Enoch, Utah, home where eight family members were found dead from gunshot wounds, on Jan. 4, 2023. Ben B. Braun / The Deseret News via AP

“We all know this family, many of us have served with them in church, in community and gone to school with these individuals, and so this community at this time is hurting,” he said.

In a letter, the Iron County School District said they were from the same family. Five were students, according to the letter, which was addressed to district parents and guardians.

“This loss is sure to raise many emotions, concerns, and questions for our entire school district, especially our students,” the letter said.  

The district added that a crisis intervention team would be available for students.

On Twitter, Utah Gov. Spencer Cox called the violence “senseless” and asked people to keep Enoch in their prayers.



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