Death of 17-year-old KayLee Dutton – Crime Suspects Arrested in Connection to Her Tragic Killing

A senseless act of violence took the life of 17-year-old KayLee Dutton on the evening of January 17, 2025, in a drive-by shooting that shocked Cedar City, Utah, and its surrounding communities. KayLee, a teenager full of life and promise, was tragically shot while driving on Midvalley Road near the intersection of 4300 West, leaving behind a family and friends who are struggling to come to terms with this devastating loss.

Authorities confirmed that a red pickup truck and a dark-colored SUV were seen following the victims’ vehicle just before the shooting occurred. The assailant’s vehicle pulled alongside KayLee’s car, and a barrage of gunfire ensued, with 12 shots fired. KayLee, who was behind the wheel of the vehicle, was struck by multiple bullets, causing her to lose control of the car. The vehicle crashed into a vinyl fence and came to an abrupt halt at the intersection. The suspect or suspects involved in the shooting quickly fled the scene.

Despite life-saving efforts by first responders, KayLee tragically succumbed to her injuries shortly after being transported to Cedar City Hospital. Her passing has left the community in shock, as her peers and teachers at Parowan High School, where KayLee was a student, mourn the loss of a young life taken too soon.

Suspects Arrested in Connection to KayLee’s Murder

Michael Hess-Witucki Named as Primary Suspect

Iron County Sheriff’s Office has confirmed that Michael Hess-Witucki, one of the four arrested individuals in connection with the shooting, has been charged with the murder of KayLee Dutton. Hess-Witucki, who is accused of firing the weapon 12 times at the victim’s vehicle, has been charged with second-degree murder, among other offenses.

Sheriff Ken Carpenter described the attack as a “senseless tragedy,” highlighting the randomness of the assault. “These two young ladies were just out enjoying themselves, joyriding around the valley,” said Carpenter. “It’s completely senseless for something like this to happen. This was not just the loss of a young life, but the destruction of so many hopes and dreams.”

Along with Hess-Witucki, three additional suspects—Matthew Sorber-Petrie, Aldric Felipe, and Ethan Galloway—have also been arrested and charged in connection with the incident. Authorities believe that all four suspects were involved in planning or executing the attack, though the exact motives behind the shooting are still under investigation.

Authorities Seek Additional Information

The investigation into the shooting is ongoing, with authorities actively appealing to the public for any information that may help in piecing together the events leading to KayLee’s death. Investigators are particularly interested in information related to a small red pickup truck and dark-colored SUV that were seen on Lund Highway between 1600 North and Midvalley Road, traveling toward the Three Peaks Campground area around 10:15 p.m. on the night of the shooting.

The Iron County Sheriff’s Office has urged businesses and residents in the area to review surveillance footage to aid in the investigation. Any detail, no matter how small, could prove vital in understanding the circumstances surrounding this devastating tragedy.

A Community in Shock

KayLee Dutton, described by those who knew her as a kind, intelligent, and vibrant young woman, was a student at Parowan High School. The loss has left a profound impact on her classmates, teachers, and the entire community. The Iron County School District released a statement expressing its heartbreak over the loss of one of its students, offering condolences to KayLee’s family and friends.

The district also offered counseling services to students and staff, with additional mental health resources made available at both Parowan High School and Canyon View High School in the aftermath of the tragedy.

“KayLee’s bright future was tragically stolen from us. We are devastated by this loss, and our thoughts are with her family during this incredibly difficult time,” the statement read.

Arrest Details for Michael Hess-Witucki and Other Suspects

Michael Hess-Witucki: Charges and Booking Details

• Arrest Type: Probable Cause Arrest (PCAR)
• Date/Time of Arrest: January 18, 2025, at 5:47 PM
• Charges:
  • 1 count of Second-Degree Murder (76-5-203)
  • 12 counts of Felony Discharge of a Firearm – Shooting at a Person (76-10-508.1(1)(A))
  • 1 count of Obstruction of Justice – Violation Not Otherwise Enumerated (76-8-306(2)+(3C))
  • 1 count of Drug Possession (Marijuana/Spice) (58-37-8(2)(D))
  • 1 count of Possession of a Dangerous Weapon by a Restricted Person (76-10-503(2)(B))

Hess-Witucki was arrested at 5:47 p.m. on January 18, 2025, and is currently being held at the Iron County Jail. His arrest follows the discovery of rifles and other evidence linking him to the shooting. Investigators believe that Hess-Witucki was responsible for discharging the weapon multiple times at the victim’s vehicle, resulting in KayLee’s fatal injuries.

Matthew Sorber-Petrie, Aldric Felipe, and Ethan Galloway: Charges and Arrest Details

The other three suspects, Matthew Sorber-Petrie, Aldric Felipe, and Ethan Galloway, were also arrested in connection with the shooting. Like Hess-Witucki, they face serious charges, including felony discharge of a firearm and obstruction of justice.

• Matthew Sorber-Petrie:
  • Arrest Type: Probable Cause Arrest
  • Date/Time of Arrest: January 18, 2025
  • Charges: Felony Discharge of a Firearm, Obstruction of Justice
  • Details: Sorber-Petrie has been implicated in the planning and execution of the attack. Authorities believe he may have played a role in the pursuit of the victim’s vehicle.
• Aldric Felipe:
  • Arrest Type: Probable Cause Arrest
  • Date/Time of Arrest: January 18, 2025, at 8:23 PM
  • Charges: Obstruction of Justice, Tampering with Evidence
  • Details: Felipe faces charges related to obstruction and is believed to have been involved in the aftermath of the shooting, helping to conceal evidence or hinder the investigation.
• Ethan Galloway:
  • Arrest Type: Probable Cause Arrest
  • Date/Time of Arrest: January 18, 2025, at 5:46 PM
  • Charges: Murder, Felony Discharge of a Firearm, Drug Possession, Obstruction of Justice
  • Details: Galloway has been implicated as one of the individuals directly involved in the shooting. He is also facing drug possession charges related to substances found in the vehicle.

The Investigation Continues

As the investigation into the tragic death of KayLee Dutton continues, the community remains in mourning, and authorities work to uncover further details about the motives behind this senseless act. Sheriff Carpenter reiterated the need for community cooperation, stressing that the investigation is not just about holding the suspects accountable but also about bringing closure to KayLee’s grieving family and friends.

“This is a devastating situation, and we are committed to finding out why this happened and ensuring that justice is served,” said Sheriff Carpenter.

Anyone with information related to the incident is urged to contact the Iron County Sheriff’s Office at 435-586-9445 or to submit tips anonymously through the Iron County Sheriff’s website.