– West Valley man charged with murder in drive-by shootings in Murray
– West Valley man accused of murder in drive-by shootings in Murray.
Accident – Death – Obituary News :
SALT LAKE CITY (ABC4) — The Salt Lake County District Attorney, Sim Gill, has announced that charges have been filed against a man in connection with a fatal gang shooting that took place on May 30. The incident resulted in the death of one individual, possibly left a teenager paralyzed, and caused injuries to two others.
Raoul Bedoang, a 17-year-old resident of West Valley City, is facing a total of 19 charges, including first-degree murder in the case of Abdiaziz Abdirahman. Abdirahman was found deceased at the intersection of Birkhill Blvd. and Fireclay Ave. in Murray. It is alleged that Bedoang is a member of the 4500 Block Gang, while Abdirahman was associated with a rival gang known as the NIB.
Alongside the first-degree murder charge, Bedoang is also charged with retaliation against a witness, 12 counts of felony discharge of a firearm, and five counts of felony discharge of a firearm resulting in serious bodily injury.
The gunfire from Bedoang resulted in a 14-year-old boy sustaining multiple gunshot wounds to his back, potentially causing paralysis. A 16-year-old victim was shot in the index finger, and a fourth individual, a bystander, was grazed by a bullet. Investigators were able to capture the shooting on video footage.
Witness Account and Events Leading to the Shooting
According to a press release from Gill’s office, a witness was approached by a group of alleged NIB members on the day of the incident. They inquired about Bedoang, to which the witness confirmed knowing him. Subsequently, the witness contacted Bedoang to inform him about the group searching for him.
Later that day, Bedoang, accompanied by two others, arrived at the witness’s residence. They requested a ride, mentioning their intention to play basketball with the individuals looking for Bedoang. The witness agreed and drove Bedoang and his associates.
Upon locating the group in Murray, Bedoang, seated in the passenger seat, reportedly opened fire, discharging 18 rounds into the group in broad daylight. Abdirahman sustained multiple gunshot wounds, including two to the head, resulting in his death at a nearby hospital. At the crime scene, investigators recovered 18 empty 9mm shell casings.
The witness, who was driving, fled the scene, while Bedoang and his companions escaped on foot. Before leaving, Bedoang allegedly warned the witness to remain silent “or else,” as per court documents. The witness asserted unfamiliarity with Bedoang’s associates, noting their attire of black clothing and ski masks.
Prosecution and Accountability
Commenting on the case, District Attorney Gill stated, “This was a violent, senseless act with the potential to cause more harm than the tragic injuries suffered. We are committed to pursuing aggressive legal action against such behaviour and holding those responsible accountable. Our thoughts are with the family of Abdiaziz Abdirahman and the other victims. We hope that the charges filed will facilitate the healing process for Mr. Abdirahman’s loved ones.”
It is important to remember that all allegations are subject to legal proceedings, and individuals are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
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West Valley man charged with murder in May drive-by shootings in Murray
Valley man charged with murder in drive-by shootings in Murray.
