KEARNS, Utah — Police have identified an officer and suspect after an officer involved shooting in Kearns, and the suspect’s wife was also arrested during the incident.
According to a press release from the Unified Police Department, the officer involved in Wednesday’s shootingis Det. Cordell Whitmore, who is an 8-year veteran of the Unified Police Department.
Whitmore shot Damian Scott Huth, 20, during a foot pursuit after a traffic stop in Kearns on Wednesday. Huth, who was wanted on outstanding warrants for aggravated assault and drug offenses, was struck in the shoulder by a bullet before he was apprehended. Friday police stated Huth remains in the hospital in stable condition and is expected to be released soon.
Huth had fled from police during a traffic stop, and his wife, 18-year-old Kelli Huth, allegedly got out of the car and assaulted officers at the scene to assist in her husband’s flight from officers. She was booked into the Salt Lake County Jail and faces charges of Escape from Official Custody, Harboring an Escapee and Interference with an Arresting officer.
“Kelli Huth admitted to wrapping her arms around Officer Mike Khong and pulling Khong off her husband, Damian Huth,” police said in a statement of Probable Cause. “Officer Khong was involved in a violent struggle with Damian Huth, while trying to take him into custody for outstanding felony warrant.”
Whitmore is reported to be in good condition after suffering lacerations to his hand.
The Salt Lake City Police Department is investigating the specific details regarding the shooting. Under Utah Law it is standard procedure for outside agencies to investigate shootings involving police.
