Press Release
Man Arrested for Murder of Minor on Ute Mountain Ute Reservation
OLJATO, Utah — Authorities have apprehended Jeremiah Hight, 23, in connection with the suspected murder of a minor on the Ute Mountain Ute Reservation. The incident, which occurred in Towaoc, the capital of the Ute Mountain Ute Tribe, took place in the early hours of December 11.
The shooting was reported to be targeted at a residential property on the reservation. Following the incident, a federal arrest warrant was issued by the FBI’s Durango Office, prompting law enforcement agencies to intensify their search for Hight in the Oljato area starting December 21.
On Christmas Eve, at approximately 3:52 p.m., Hight was found and arrested by the Navajo Police Department’s K-9 Unit and the Bureau of Indian Affairs Division of Drug Enforcement. He was reportedly located on a mesa west of Oljato, and the arrest was carried out without any incidents.
Hight now faces serious charges, including murder, as the investigation into the tragic shooting continues. Local authorities are emphasizing the importance of community safety and the swift action taken by law enforcement in apprehending the suspect.
As the case unfolds, support and outreach programs are expected to address the impacts of this incident within the Ute Mountain Ute community and surrounding areas.
Officials urge anyone with further information about the incident to come forward as they continue their investigation. The situation remains a tragic reminder of the urgent need for safety and protection within communities.