Identity of woman killed in storage unit fire is released

MURRAY, Utah — The identity of the woman who died in a Murray storage unit fire over the weekend was released Monday.

Police say 27-year-old Morgan Kay Harris, formerly of southern Utah, was allegedly locked in a shortage unit by her boyfriend on Saturday, which later caught fire.

Additionally, the family of Harris issued the following statement on Monday.

“Our daughter, Morgan Kay Harris was always known for her sweet, shy, and kind temperament, being a
deep thinker with amazing artistic abilities and always having an infectious giggle. She was a beautiful
model and makeup artist and a successful medical assistant,” the statement read. “Just recently starting a new job in the Draper area she was excited about. She loved her dog, Huck who passed with her. Leaving behind her
parents, siblings, nieces, and nephews whom she adored. We are devastated at the loss of our
daughter and appreciate the love and support from the community but ask for your privacy at this time
as we maneuver through the unimaginable.”

According to the probable cause statement, 30-year-old Alexander Wardell informed police that his girlfriend was in the storage unit when he closed the door. Furthermore, Wardell told police that he locked the door and left the scene on foot.

According to authorities, Wardell has been booked into the Salt Lake County Jail for investigation of negligent homicide and kidnapping. 

As of Monday, the cause of the fire is still unknown.   

If you or someone you know are experiencing trouble linked to domestic violence, the following resources are available to you.

Utah Domestic Violence LINKLine
1-800-897-LINK (5465)

If LINKLine advocates are experiencing an increased call volume, calls will be forwarded to the National Domestic Violence Hotline.

National Domestic Violence Hotline
1-800-799-SAFE (7233)

StrongHearts Native Helpline
1-844-762-8483

More reading:

• Woman dies after being allegedly locked in storage unit that caught fire
• Body found in Ogden storage unit identified as 41-year-old woman

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