Arrest Made in Connection to Fatal Shooting of J’kye Watkins in Salt Lake City

SALT LAKE CITY — A man has been apprehended by the police in connection with the tragic shooting incident that claimed the life of 18-year-old J’kye Watkins in September.

On the early morning of September 10, 2023, Watkins was discovered with multiple gunshot wounds near the intersection of 900 East and 2100 South in Sugar House, Salt Lake City. According to investigators, it is believed that Watkins attended a private event at a party venue where he became involved in a dispute with a group of men.

Following the altercation, the group of men left the party and reportedly drove around the area in a grey Nissan Sentra. It is alleged that as Watkins was walking through a parking lot, the men turned off their car’s headlights, entered the lot, and opened fire, resulting in Watkins sustaining fatal injuries.

Paramedics swiftly transported Watkins to the hospital in a critical condition, but sadly, he succumbed to his injuries a few hours later.

Speaking about his nephew, Tyler Fillmore, expressed his grief and shared fond memories of Watkins. Fillmore described Watkins as a humorous young man who cherished his family dearly.

Fillmore stated, “J’kye would go to great lengths for his family. He adored his brothers and sister, but above all, he cherished his mother. This is what makes this tragedy all the more heart-wrenching. I want people to understand that the negative narrative that might be circulating is not a true reflection of who he was. He was an exceptional young man.”

The Salt Lake City Police Department announced that Felix Diego-Rufino, the driver of the Nissan, has been taken into custody. Diego-Rufino has been booked into the Salt Lake County Metro Jail on a charge of murder.

Authorities have emphasized that their investigation is ongoing, and they anticipate the possibility of further arrests in relation to this case. Individuals possessing any information pertaining to this incident are urged to contact the Salt Lake City Police Department at 801-799-3000 and reference case number 23-03839.