Homeless Man Arrested Again for Digging Hole Under Utah Overpass

Troy Coyn Jones charged with trespassing and criminal mischief for repeat offense.

Published on Feb. 13, 2026

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A 45-year-old homeless man, Troy Coyn Jones, has been arrested again for digging a large hole under a UTA TRAX line structure in Murray, Utah. This is the second time Jones has been charged for a similar incident, after previously being arrested last year for digging a 6-foot tall hole under an I-15 overpass that caused around $10,000 in damage.

Why it matters

Incidents of homeless individuals causing damage to public infrastructure raise concerns about homelessness, mental health issues, and the need for better support systems. This case highlights the challenges of repeat offenders and the strain on law enforcement and public resources.

The details

On Wednesday, Murray police located Jones inside a newly dug hole under the UTA TRAX line structure on Winchester Street. This is the same area where Jones was arrested on Monday and charged on Tuesday with illegal camping. Last year, Jones was arrested for digging a larger hole under an I-15 overpass, which state crews had to fill with concrete to repair the damage.

  • On Monday, Jones was arrested in the same area.
  • On Tuesday, Jones was charged with illegal camping.
  • On Wednesday, police located Jones inside a newly dug hole under the UTA TRAX line structure.

The players

Troy Coyn Jones

A 45-year-old homeless man who has been arrested multiple times for digging holes under infrastructure in Murray, Utah.

Murray Police

The law enforcement agency that has arrested Jones for the repeated incidents of digging holes under public infrastructure.

UTA

The Utah Transit Authority, which oversees the TRAX light rail system that was impacted by Jones' alleged actions.

UDOT

The Utah Department of Transportation, which owns the property where Jones previously dug a hole under an I-15 overpass.

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What they’re saying

“Today I located him inside this hole.”

— Arresting Officer (Police Booking Affidavit)

What’s next

Jones is scheduled for a preliminary hearing on March 3 regarding the previous charge of criminal mischief for impairing critical infrastructure.

The takeaway

This case highlights the ongoing challenges of homelessness and the need for comprehensive solutions that address mental health, housing, and support services, in addition to law enforcement responses to prevent further damage to public infrastructure.