ST. GEORGE, Utah — A St. George man has been arrested for manslaughter after a minor was killed in a shooting Friday night. Family members have confirmed the victim was 17-year-old Jason Quiroz.
St. George Police said its investigation began at approximately 7:30 p.m. when first responders arrived to reports of a gunshot near 500 East 1100 South.
Paramedics arriving on scene found a juvenile male with a gunshot wound. By the time police officers arrived, the minor had been pronounced dead at the scene.
Booking documents state that Malachi Robles-Romo, 19, called the dispatch center, reporting someone having been "shot" at the stated address. But when medical personnel arrived on scene, before police, he told them he had shot his "friend", asking them to help the victim.
Robles-Romo later admitted to police he had shot the victim with a handgun. In the probable cause statement, an officer noted that Robles-Romo gave detailed information indicating that he possessed "ample knowledge about the gun," including how to disassemble one.
Officers also found a THC vape, with Robles-Romo admitting he had been using it prior to the shooting.
The Quiroz family has established a GoFundMe to raise money for Jason's funeral. You can find more information on the fundraiser here.
Robles-Romo was booked into Washington County Jail for Manslaughter and Felony Discharge of a Firearm, among other offenses. He's currently being held without bail.
