FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Media Contact Information: PolicePRUnit@slcgov.com

Media Request Form: https://police.slc.gov/mediarequest/

SLCPD Conducting Shooting Investigation at West High School, Tips Sought

SALT LAKE CITY — The Salt Lake City Police Department is investigating a shooting that injured a 15-year-old male in the parking lot of West High School.

The 15-year-old male is at a local hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.

Because of his age, no additional details about him are being released.

This investigation started at 2:02 p.m. when SLC911 received a call from a local hospital reporting a teenage male showed up with what appeared to be a gunshot wound.

While at the hospital, the patient told hospital staff someone shot him at West High School.

SLCPD School Resource Officers (SROs) and patrol officers responded to the hospital to gather more information about the circumstances.

During their investigation, SLCPD SROs learned there may have been a gang-nexus to the incident and requested assistance from the SLCPD Gang Unit.

SLCPD gang detectives responded to the hospital and West High School to continue the investigation by speaking with the patient, reviewing video, and searching the parking lots of West High School for any potential evidence.

After surgery, doctors confirmed the injury to the 15-year-old was consistent with a gunshot wound.

Based on the preliminary investigation, detectives believe around 12:15 p.m. on Thursday, November 7, 2024, a group of teenagers gathered in a parking lot on high school property. Many of the teenagers appeared to know each other and appeared to be involved in an ongoing conflict.

At some point, someone discharged a firearm, and a bullet struck the 15-year-old.

Immediately after, everyone left the parking lot in various directions, including the 15-year-old.

A family member of the 15-year-old drove him to the hospital after he returned home injured.

Despite there being several witnesses, no one reported the incident to SLC911, SLCPD SROs, or school officials.

Between 12 a.m. and 5 p.m. on November 7, 2024, there were only four calls for service at West High School. Three of the four calls for service occurred before 10 a.m. and the fourth call was the call made from the hospital.

Detectives are working with the high school’s administration and SLCPD SROs to identify the people in the parking lot before, during, and after the shooting.

Detectives are asking that anyone with information on this case call 801-799-3000 and ask to speak with a police officer. Detectives believe there may be people who have video or photos that could assist with this investigation.

The Salt Lake City Police Department recognizes the public interest in this case.

Throughout the afternoon and evening, the department has been working closely with the school district and detectives to ensure as much information about this case could be released as soon as possible once analyzed and verified.

Detectives believe this is an isolated incident between several teenagers.

There is no evidence to suggest any greater threat to the West High School community.

Because this shooting occurred on high school property, SLCPD will have additional patrols at the school on Friday, November 8, 2024.

A Salt Lake City Police Department Public Information Officer (PIO) will be available for media interviews tonight, Thursday, November 7, 2024.

Media should look for additional details in a separate email.

The Salt Lake City Police Department’s Gang Unit is essential in combating gang-related crimes. The unit of skilled and highly trained officers and detectives collaborates with patrol divisions and other specialty squads to gather intelligence and prevent gang and gun violence through education, prevention, and enforcement. The unit’s understanding of gang culture allows them to disrupt operations and prevent violence effectively. By working proactively and with various partners, the Gang Unit enhances public safety, fosters community trust, and reduces gang activity in the city.

The information contained in this news release is based on a preliminary review of the details available to the Salt Lake City Police Department. As the investigation progresses, information may change.

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