Crime Victim Killed in Cedar City Drive-By Shooting Identified as 17-Year-Old KayLee Joan Hunter

Family and Friends Mourn the Loss of Teenager KayLee Joan Hunter Following Tragic Death in Drive-By Shooting Incident in Cedar City, Utah

Investigation Underway as Authorities Seek Information About the Death of 17-Year-Old KayLee Joan Hunter in Cedar City Drive-By Shooting

In a devastating turn of events, 17-year-old KayLee Joan Hunter, a young woman full of promise, was tragically killed in a drive-by shooting while driving northwest of Cedar City on Friday, January 17, 2025. Authorities have confirmed that Hunter’s death occurred late in the evening after what appears to have been a targeted and senseless attack that left her fighting for her life.

Obituary: KayLee Joan Hunter – A Life Tragically Cut Short

Hunter, who was a senior at Cedar City High School, was widely loved and admired by friends, teachers, and family. Known for her infectious smile, compassionate nature, and strong work ethic, she had a bright future ahead of her. Her sudden and untimely death has left her community in shock and mourning, as the details surrounding her tragic death continue to unfold.

Her family, devastated by the loss, described her as a vibrant and caring individual who had a love for life and was excited about her future. “KayLee had so many dreams,” said her mother, while speaking to reporters. “She was kind-hearted, always willing to lend a hand. This doesn’t feel real. Our hearts are broken.”

A close friend of Hunter’s, Emma Reed, said, “She was the kind of friend who made you feel seen. She loved animals and was always so full of energy. Losing her this way, it’s just unbelievable.”

As investigations into Hunter’s death progress, her family has called for justice and pleaded for any information that could lead to those responsible for the shooting being brought to account.

Details of the Tragic Incident: Authorities Investigating Drive-By Shooting that Led to KayLee Joan Hunter’s Death

According to a statement released by the Iron County Sheriff’s Office, the shooting took place at approximately 10:42 p.m. on Friday, January 17, when dispatchers received reports of gunfire targeting a vehicle along Midvalley Road, located northwest of Cedar City. Emergency responders arrived at the scene to find Hunter unresponsive in her red pickup truck at the intersection of Midvalley Road and 4300 West.

Despite the best efforts of first responders and medical personnel, who rushed to perform life-saving measures, Hunter was declared deceased while being transported to Cedar City Hospital.

Initial Investigations Indicate a Pursuit and Targeted Attack

Investigators have revealed that initial findings suggest Hunter’s vehicle had been pursued by an unidentified assailant for several miles prior to the fatal shooting. Law enforcement officials have not yet determined the motive behind the attack but are continuing to examine all possible leads in the case.

Lieutenant Dave Mitchell, a spokesperson for the Iron County Sheriff’s Office, confirmed that Hunter’s truck was closely followed by a dark-colored truck or SUV, which was later observed pulling alongside Hunter’s vehicle. At this point, the assailant’s vehicle fired multiple rounds into Hunter’s truck, causing her to lose control of the vehicle.

The gunfire caused the red pickup truck to veer off the road, crash through a vinyl fence, and come to a stop approximately 100 feet northwest of the intersection. Authorities are working to identify the vehicle that pursued Hunter, and any information or leads from the public could potentially help move the investigation forward.

Lt. Mitchell urged anyone with information about the incident to contact the Iron County Sheriff’s Office. “We are seeking the public’s help to piece together the events leading up to this tragedy,” he said in a statement. “If anyone witnessed a red pickup truck being followed by a dark-colored vehicle on Lund Highway or Midvalley Road, please come forward. Your information could make all the difference.”

Appeal for Public Assistance in Investigation

Iron County authorities are particularly interested in hearing from anyone who may have seen a red pickup truck being followed by a dark-colored truck or SUV on Lund Highway between 1600 North and Midvalley Road. Investigators are also asking for any sightings of these vehicles heading west on Midvalley Road, toward the Three Peaks Campground area.

Additionally, businesses and residents who live along these routes are being encouraged to check their surveillance footage for any footage that could assist in the investigation. Authorities believe video evidence could play a crucial role in identifying the assailant’s vehicle and potentially uncovering the motive behind this senseless act.

“We know this is a tragic and unsettling situation for the Cedar City community,” Lt. Mitchell said, adding that investigators are working tirelessly to solve the case and bring those responsible for KayLee Joan Hunter’s death to justice.

Community Reaction to KayLee Hunter’s Death

KayLee Joan Hunter’s death has shocked the Cedar City community, where she was known for her warmth, intelligence, and dedication to her friends and family. As news of the drive-by shooting spread, local residents have expressed their sorrow and concern for Hunter’s family.

The Cedar City High School community, where Hunter was a well-liked student, has come together in support of her grieving family. A memorial fund has been set up to assist with funeral expenses and other family needs during this incredibly difficult time.

Local law enforcement agencies have also received messages of support from the community, which has come together in solidarity, calling for swift action in the investigation. “This is a senseless act of violence, and we need to make sure it doesn’t happen again,” said local resident Maria Jenkins, who has lived in Cedar City for over 30 years. “We need to find whoever is responsible and hold them accountable.”

Many community members are planning to gather for a candlelight vigil in Hunter’s memory, hoping to honor her life and bring attention to the need for justice. The vigil is scheduled for next week at the Cedar City Town Park, and organizers are encouraging all those who knew Hunter or were affected by her death to participate.

The Search for the Assailant Continues

As of now, the identity of the shooter remains unknown, and law enforcement agencies are actively pursuing all leads in the case. Iron County investigators are utilizing all available resources, including forensic evidence, witness interviews, and any potential surveillance footage, to piece together the events surrounding Hunter’s death.

The Sheriff’s Office has assured the public that every avenue will be explored in the hopes of bringing clarity to what happened and holding the responsible party or parties accountable for this heinous act.

“We are dedicated to solving this case,” Lt. Mitchell emphasized. “KayLee’s death is a tragic reminder that we must stay vigilant and stand together as a community to prevent violence from claiming the lives of our loved ones.”

How to Help: Contacting Authorities with Information

Authorities are urging anyone who may have information about the shooting, the vehicles involved, or any related incidents to come forward. Anyone with footage or eyewitness testimony is asked to contact the following agencies:

• Iron County Sheriff’s Office: (435) 867-7500
• Cedar Dispatch (Non-Emergency): (435) 586-9445

Additionally, anonymous tips can be submitted to Crime Stoppers, and information provided may lead to a reward for valuable contributions to the investigation.

A Heartbreaking Loss for a Grieving Community

The death of 17-year-old KayLee Joan Hunter has left a permanent scar on the Cedar City community, as well as on her grieving family and friends. With the investigation ongoing, local authorities and residents alike are hoping for justice to be served and for the person or persons responsible for her death to be brought to justice.

As her family mourns their unimaginable loss, they are united in their hope that those responsible for KayLee’s death will be held accountable. “She was just a kid,” Hunter’s mother said in a tearful interview. “She didn’t deserve this. No one deserves this.”

The case remains under investigation, and the community of Cedar City continues to grieve, hoping for answers that will bring closure to the tragic and senseless loss of KayLee Joan Hunter.