IRON COUNTY, UT – Four men have been arrested in connection with a fatal drive-by shooting that claimed the life of 17-year-old KayLee Dutton and injured her passenger. The suspects, ranging in age from 21 to 23, are facing a range of charges, including murder and obstruction of justice.
According to the Iron County Sheriff’s Office, the tragic incident occurred late Friday night as Dutton and her friend were traveling in a red truck northwest of Cedar City. The suspects reportedly mistook the victims’ vehicle for one they believed was stalking them. They pursued the truck and fired 12 shots, fatally striking Dutton and causing the vehicle to crash. Despite lifesaving efforts, Dutton succumbed to her injuries.
The suspects were identified as Michael Edward Hess-Witucki, 23; Ethan Andrew Galloway, 23; Aldric S. Felipe, 21; and Matthew D. Sorber-Petri, 22. Hess-Witucki and Galloway face charges of murder, multiple counts of felony discharge of a firearm, and possession of a controlled substance. Felipe and Sorber-Petri are charged with obstruction of justice and firearm-related offenses.
Investigators revealed that Hess-Witucki, the vehicle’s driver, admitted to pursuing Dutton’s truck while Galloway fired the shots. Surveillance footage and witness statements placed the suspects’ vehicle at the scene, leading authorities to execute search warrants. Firearms, ammunition, and drug paraphernalia were recovered during the search.
In post-Miranda interviews, both Hess-Witucki and Galloway confessed to their roles in the shooting. Galloway reportedly penned an apology letter to Dutton’s family, expressing remorse for his actions. Felipe and Sorber-Petri admitted to their involvement, with Sorber-Petri allowing his firearm to be used in the confrontation.
Iron County Sheriff Ken Carpenter condemned the senseless act of violence, stating, “Our hearts go out to the families of these two young ladies. They were just being teenagers having fun, and someone violently attacked them.”
Authorities are urging anyone with additional information about the case to contact the Iron County Sheriff’s Office. As the investigation continues, the community mourns the loss of a promising young life and hopes for justice for KayLee Dutton.