Gun believed to be used in Utah road rage homicide found, police say

HIDEOUT, Utah (ABC4) — Deputies with the Wasatch County Sheriff’s Office say they have recovered the gun believed to be used to kill a 61-year-old man in a road rage incident near the Jordanelle Reservoir about two months ago.

Patrick L. Hayes was found dead on the morning of Sept. 26 under what authorities called “suspicious circumstances.” Hayes was reportedly found near the Ross Creek Trailhead outside of his car on the shoulder of the freeway.

Based on the ongoing investigation, the Wasatch County Sheriff’s Office said Hayes appeared to have been involved in a road rage incident. Detectives believe Hayes may have left his car, approached another vehicle with a metal baton and pocket knife in hand and “aggressively called out the other driver.”

“Ultimately, the driver of the second vehicle appears to have shot and killed Mr. Hayes,” the Wasatch County Sheriff’s Office said in an update to the investigation. “At this time, we are analyzing evidence as to whether Mr. Hayes was attempting to enter the vehicle.”

While authorities have recovered the gun believed to be used, investigators did not disclose where the gun was found.

Investigators with the Wasatch County Sheriff’s Office said they have submitted further evidence to the State Crime Lab for analysis. Investigators are reportedly investigating all possible crimes and considering all defenses related to Hayes’ death, including homicide and the possibility of self-defense.

“Importantly, our hearts go out to the family and friends of Mr. Hayes. They have been cooperative, kind, and helpful throughout the investigation,” the Wasatch County Sherrif’s Office said.

The Wasatch County Sheriff’s Office did not provide any further information, saying they would provide another update once the results of the evidence analysis is available.