An investigation is underway into an alleged murder-suicide that took place in Utah. A mother and her young son were found dead on the Shafer Trail in Canyonlands National Park. Details are still emerging, but the mother and her son were from Colorado and had been reported missing the day before by her husband. Although the mother and her son have been identified, due to the sensitive nature of their deaths, no additional information has been released to the public about who they are. Authorities also haven’t released any information about their cause of death, but the investigation into what ended their lives continues.
Park rangers in the Island in the Sky District of Canyonlands National Park were called around 8:15 a.m. on January 8, 2026, 9 News reported, citing the San Juan County Sheriff’s Office. A suspicious vehicle was parked in a no-camping area of the park.
According to the sheriff’s office, when park rangers got arrived, they found an unresponsive 6-year-old boy inside the vehicle. They performed life-saving measures and he was taken to the hospital, but he was declared dead on arrival, 9 News reported. Another person was found dead outside the vehicle, according to the sheriff’s office.
In a news release, the sheriff’s office confirmed that the people found dead were a mother and son. Positive identification of both victims was made by the medical examiner’s office.
“Out of respect for the family and the tragedy they are experiencing, we are not releasing the names of the individuals at this time,” the release reads. “Based on all evidence obtained so far, this case is being investigated as a homicide & suicide.”
The release noted that the mother and her son were reported missing January 7 by her husband, who lives in Colorado.
“This is a heartbreaking tragedy, and our thoughts and deepest sympathies are with the family during this incredibly difficult time,” the sheriff’s office shared.
According to People, the investigation into the alleged murder-suicide remains ongoing as of January 12, 2026.
Note: If you or any of your loved ones are struggling with suicidal thoughts, you can always reach out to the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline by calling 988. They are available 24/7 by phone or online chat.
