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Two shot in Magna; shelter in place lifted at nearby schools

Posted at 10:29 AM, Jan 16, 2018
and last updated 2018-01-16 20:11:27-05

MAGNA, Utah —Officials from the Unified Police Department are investigating a shooting at a bus stop in Magna Tuesday morning.

The shooting incident occurred near 7200 W 3500 S. A 17-year-old and a 56-year-old man are both in critical condition after they were shot, according to police.

Detective Chuck Malm of the Unified Police Department, says it started with a heated exchange between a 17-year-old and someone driving a black Nissan.

"The juvenile victim was waiting at the bus stop when the vehicle pulled up. There was some words exchanged and after the words were exchanged the vehicle left," Malm said.

About ten minutes later, the car came back and opened fire.

"There may be multiple suspects that were in the vehicle," said Malm.

The Utah Department of Transportation reports 3500 S has been closed between 7200 W and 7800 W as police investigate the scene. That section of the road was expected to reopen by noon.

The 17-year-old was hit and rushed to the hospital. He's currently in fair condition. An innocent bystander was also hit. Based on the state vehicle parked in the lot behind the bus stop, police believe he's a state employee.

"We believe maybe he was a state worker that was maybe collecting garbage or working in the area and was right behind the bus stop," said Malm.

Police say the 56-year-old innocent bystander is also in fair condition. The suspect’s car is a black Nissan hatchback or small SUV.

"It left westbound from this location and headed north on Patrick Drive," said Malm.

At this point, police aren't sure why that initial argument escalated, leading to a violent exchange that could've easily turned tragic.

The Granite School District placed three nearby schools in a "shelter in place" state: Lake Ridge Elementary, Copper Hills Elementary and Matheson Jr. High. During a shelter in place, the schools' exterior doors are locked, no visitors are allowed and classes proceed as normal.

"The incident does not involve any of the schools, and there is no direct threat to students. The protocol is strictly precautionary to ensure student safety," a statement from Granite School District said.