SLCPD investigating alleged homicide involving a child

May 19, 2024, 6:48 PM | Updated: May 20, 2024, 7:27 am

SLCPD emblem at the Salt Lake City Public Safety Building. A big change is coming to the leadership structure of the SLCPD. It will will replace the position of captain with the position of commander. (Nick Wyatt, KSL Newsradio)

(Nick Wyatt, KSL Newsradio)

BY DEVIN OLDROYD

Digital Content Producer

SALT LAKE CITY — The Salt Lake City Police Department is conducting a homicide investigation involving a man and a child.

According to a press release, at 10:30 p.m. on Saturday, SLCPD responded to reports of a possible death at a home near Van Buren Ave. and Main St. in the Ballpark Neighborhood.

Once they arrived at the scene, officers found the bodies of a 34-year-old man and a 6-year-old boy.

Police have identified the 34-year-old as Samuel Owen. They are investigating the case as a homicide and death by suicide involving a firearm. Police believe Owen killed his son and then himself.

“This is a very tragic moment for our community,” said SLCPD Chief Mike Brown in the press release. “These are among the most difficult calls for service our officers, detectives, crime lab technicians, victim advocates and social workers handle. My condolences and prayers are with those impacted by this loss.”

SLCPD’s Homicide Squad is leading the investigation. This is the fourth homicide in Salt Lake City since the beginning of 2024, according to police.

If you or anyone you know is struggling with thoughts of suicide, call 988, the National Suicide Prevention Hotline or the Huntsman Mental Health Institute (1-801-583-2500).