Suspect Captured After 3 Women Found Dead in Utah

Authorities received a call about 2 women found dead on a hiking trail, with a third victim located at a residence in Wayne County.

Published on Mar. 5, 2026

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A suspect is in custody after three women were found dead in Wayne County, Utah, authorities said. The victims were in their 30s, 60s, and 80s, and the deaths are believed to be connected, though the reasons are unclear. Law enforcement agencies, including the FBI, launched a manhunt across several counties before the suspect was apprehended early Thursday morning.

Why it matters

The deaths of three women in a rural Utah county have sparked a major law enforcement response and raised concerns about public safety in the area, which is popular with hikers due to its proximity to national parks. The apprehension of a suspect has provided some relief, but the motive and circumstances behind the killings remain under investigation.

The details

Authorities received a call on Wednesday afternoon about two women found dead on a hiking trail in Wayne County. A third victim was later located at a residence in the same county. The victims were all women in their 30s, 60s, and 80s, though their identities have not been released. Law enforcement agencies, including the FBI, launched a manhunt across several counties before the suspect was captured early Thursday morning.

  • On Wednesday afternoon, authorities received a call about 2 women found dead on a hiking trail.
  • A third victim was later located at a residence in Wayne County.
  • The suspect was captured early Thursday morning.

The players

Sevier County Sheriff's Office

The law enforcement agency that confirmed the suspect's capture.

Utah Department of Safety

The state agency that provided details about the three victims found dead.

FBI

The federal law enforcement agency that assisted in the investigation and manhunt.

Wayne County School District

The school district that announced the closure of schools on Thursday and Friday due to the ongoing situation.

Wayne County Courthouse

The county courthouse that was shuttered for the day due to the current situation in Wayne County.

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What they’re saying

“We have received confirmation that a suspect in the Wayne County homicides was captured early this morning. The suspect is in law enforcement custody.”

— Sevier County Sheriff's Office (nbcnews.com)

“Take extra precautions, keep lights on, keep doors locked, remain home or with others this evening if possible.”

— Wayne County Sheriff's Office (nbcnews.com)

What’s next

Authorities have not yet released the identities of the three victims or provided details on the suspect's motive and connection to the crimes. The investigation is ongoing, and more information is expected to be released in the coming days.

The takeaway

The tragic deaths of three women in a rural Utah county have sparked a major law enforcement response and raised concerns about public safety in the area. While a suspect has been apprehended, the circumstances behind the killings remain under investigation, underscoring the need for continued vigilance and community support during this difficult time.