Accident – death – Obituary News :

Man Charged with Murdering Co-Worker at Salt Lake City Storage Facility

SALT LAKE CITY (ABC4) – A tragic incident unfolded at a temporary storage facility in Salt Lake City in early January, leading to the death of a 65-year-old man. Now, charges have been filed against the suspect accused of brutally killing his co-worker.

The Alleged Crime

Nathan David Evans, 41, allegedly used a hammer to strike the victim, identified as David Hinklebein, 15 times, resulting in his death. The shocking incident took place at their workplace. Evans now faces first-degree felony murder charges and second-degree felony desecration of a human body.

Eye-Witness Testimony

According to court documents, a driver for Advantage Services reported to detectives that he had picked up multiple individuals on the night of the alleged murder, including Evans. The driver claimed to have overheard one angry passenger, believed to be Evans, expressing his intention to “kill a guy” at a warehouse by “bashing his head in.” The anger was allegedly fueled by mistreatment and the victim interfering with the suspect’s belongings.

Discovery of the Crime

A few days later, another co-worker went looking for Hinklebein in the back office. However, this individual was allegedly stopped by Evans. Later on, the co-worker noticed bloody handprints on the wall and blood stains on the carpet. When the co-worker confronted Evans about the mess, Evans became defensive and responded with vague, abbreviated answers.

Concerned about Hinklebein’s well-being, the co-worker asked Evans if he was okay. Evans reportedly replied, “He’s done,” which led the co-worker to believe that Hinklebein was dead.

Evidence and Medical Examination

Upon the arrival of investigators, a hammer with blood on it was found, along with a garbage bag containing Evans’ bloodstained clothes. A doctor from the Utah State Medical Examiner’s Office confirmed that Hinklebein had suffered at least 15 blunt force injuries consistent with hammer strikes. Additionally, the doctor noted three sharp force injuries to the neck, inflicted after Hinklebein’s death.

Prosecution and Condemnation

Salt Lake County District Attorney Sim Gill expressed his determination to prosecute workplace violence to the fullest extent of the law. He stated, “When people go to work, they do not expect to be faced with violence. Workplace violence is intolerable.” Gill also extended his condolences to those who knew Hinklebein through his work with the homeless in Salt Lake County.

Suspect’s Denial

Evans denied having seen Hinklebein for several days and claimed that he had not entered the back offices or spoken to his co-worker about the mess.

It is important to note that charges are merely allegations, and all arrested individuals are presumed innocent unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.

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