The discovery of three deceased women in Wayne County, Utah, on Wednesday prompted Utah authorities to initiate a manhunt and led to school closures, local outlets and officials reported.
Three women were discovered dead in two different locations triggering a multi‑county search effort across central and southern Utah, according to KSLciting the Utah Department of Public Safety.
According to the update cited by the outlet, investigators were alerted Wednesday afternoon when two bodies were located along a hiking trail. A third woman was found inside a residence in the county. The women were of varying ages, with one reported to be in her 30s, another in her 60s, and the third in her 80s.
“As this remains an active investigation, with the suspect at large, law enforcement is urging residents in the Torrey and surrounding area to take extra precautions, such as locking doors, remaining at home or with others, and being vigilant about surroundings. Please report any suspicious activity to 911,” the Department of Public Safety said, per KSL.
The Wayne County Sheriff’s Office urged county residents to keep lights, doors locked, and remain home or with others due to “recent incidents” in a social media post on Wednesday.
Wayne County School District announced in a statement that schools would be shut Thursday and Friday.
“Due to unfolding events in the county, out of an abundance of caution and concern for student and public safety, schools will be closed tomorrow and Friday. We will also have counselors in place to support students when we are back in session next week. We will communicate updates as things unfold,” the school district said on Facebook on Wednesday.
This is a developing story and will be updated.
