Public urged to help in hunt for suspect behind fatal Jordanelle shooting

Photo: Michele Roepke // TownLift

'We want to bring those responsible for Mr. Hayes’ death to justice, and we need your help,'

WASATCH COUNTY, Utah — The Wasatch County Sheriff’s Office is asking for the public’s help in identifying a Jeep Gladiator or Rubicon connected to the homicide of Patrick Hayes on Sept. 25 near Jordanelle State Park.

Hayes, 61, of Hideout, was found dead after an apparent collision and shooting incident. According to authorities, Hayes’ blue 2022 Volkswagen Taos was seen on video at around 11:15 p.m., stopping at the park’s entrance. A Jeep Gladiator or Rubicon stopped behind him.

Hayes was seen confronting the Jeep’s driver before the vehicle drove toward him. An occupant of the Jeep then shot Hayes, authorities said. The Jeep fled the scene.

Earlier that evening, Hayes had left Midvale around 9:30 p.m. and was driving home to Park City. His vehicle appeared to have been damaged in a collision just before the shooting.

Sheriff Jared Rigby urged anyone with information about aggressive driving or a collision involving a Jeep Gladiator or Rubicon between 9:30 p.m. and 11:15 p.m. on Sept. 25 to contact the sheriff’s office. He also asked residents and drivers in the area that night to check their vehicle or property cameras for footage of the Jeep.

“We want to bring those responsible for Mr. Hayes’ death to justice, and we need your help,” Rigby said.

Anyone with information is asked to call the Wasatch County Sheriff’s Office at 435-654-1411.

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