PAYSON, Utah — A man and woman died after a shooting in Payson Canyon early Saturday morning.
It appeared that the incident was a suicide and accidental shooting, according to the Utah County Sheriff’s Office.
Officers responded to calls of a shooting at approximately 12:30 a.m. The person who called 911 told police that the man and woman were camping together and had been arguing for several hours before the shot was fired.
Police later said it appeared the man died from a self-inflicted gunshot which then hit the woman’s neck.
The woman was critically injured. Payson Fire and Rescue, as well as AirMed personnel, responded but were unable to save the woman. Police believe her death was accidental.
The incident occurred about six miles up the canyon between Maple Lake and Maple Bench campground.
Others camping with the man and woman were not physically injured.
If you or someone you know is struggling with thoughts of suicide, help is available 24/7 by calling 1-800-273-TALK. Utahns can also visit Hope4Utah and the Suicide Prevention Resource Center for additional resources. You can also download the SafeUT app for instant, confidential crisis services.
