Residents across Central Utah are reacting with sadness and concern following a triple homicide investigation in neighboring Wayne County earlier this week. While the incidents occurred south of Sevier County, the events have drawn attention throughout the region as many local residents travel regularly through Wayne County communities and recreation areas. Authorities say three women, Margaret Oldroyd, 86, of Lyman; Linda Dewey, 65; and Natalie Graves, 34, were killed Wednesday in separate incidents in the Torrey, Teasdale and Lyman areas. Dewey and Graves, who were aunt and niece, were discovered near a trailhead south of Torrey, while Oldroyd was found at her home in Lyman.
Law enforcement officials identified the suspect as 22-year-old Ivan Miller of Iowa. After a multi-state search involving numerous local, state and federal agencies, Miller was taken into custody early Thursday morning near Pagosa Springs, Colorado.
According to investigators, Miller told authorities he targeted the victims in order to steal their vehicles and credit cards so he could obtain money and transportation to return home. Charging documents state Miller had been stranded in the area after hitting an elk with his truck several days earlier and was attempting to travel back to the Midwest.
Authorities have indicated there was no known connection between the suspect and the victims.
During the search for the suspect, Wayne County officials asked residents to remain indoors and keep their doors locked as officers worked to locate Miller. Officials have since stated there is no ongoing threat to the public.
The investigation remains active as prosecutors move forward with multiple aggravated murder charges.
Communities throughout central and southern Utah have expressed support for the victims’ families and appreciation for the coordinated efforts of law enforcement agencies who worked quickly to locate and apprehend the suspect.
