Crime
Ryan Michael Bate Identified as Suspect in Tremonton Shooting That Killed Officers Lee Sorensen and Eric Estrada
TREMONTON, Utah — Authorities have identified the suspect accused of fatally shooting two Tremonton Garland police officers as 33-year-old Ryan Michael Bate, who was booked early Monday into the Weber County Jail on charges of aggravated murder and assault.
The fatal shooting occurred Sunday night, August 17, 2025, after officers responded to multiple 911 hang-up calls around 9 p.m. from a residence near 700 North and 200 East, close to North Park Elementary School.
According to the Brigham City Police Department, the first responding Tremonton Garland officer began speaking with a resident when Bate emerged from the home carrying a firearm and opened fire, killing the officer.
A second officer who had arrived to provide backup was also shot and killed.
A Box Elder County sheriff’s deputy, who had responded with a K-9, was then fired upon when Bate shot into the deputy’s patrol vehicle, injuring both the deputy and the police dog.
Both were later hospitalized and reported in fair condition Monday morning.
Police said bystanders ultimately persuaded Bate to surrender his weapon, after which he was taken into custody. Given the level of violence and uncertainty about additional threats, multiple agencies, including SWAT teams, responded and cleared the residence.
Fallen officers has been identified as sergeant Lee Sorensen and officer Eric Estrada.
Court records reveal that Bate has a history of violent encounters with law enforcement.
In May 2024, Box Elder Police charged him with aggravated assault and domestic violence in the presence of a child following a reported family disturbance at the same address where Sunday’s shooting took place.
According to the probable cause statement from that case, Bate broke a chair, grabbed the victim by the throat, threw her onto a couch, and then locked her out of the home.
The report noted that young children and firearms were present in the residence at the time. The victim disclosed that a similar assault had occurred the previous week but had gone unreported because she “wanted to keep her family together.” The charges in that case were later dismissed.
Earlier records also show that Bate faced charges of assault and disorderly conduct in Tremonton City in October 2021, which were likewise dismissed.
In a prepared statement, the Brigham City Police Department described the tragedy as one that has deeply shaken the community:
“Tragedies like these rock an entire community, state, and even nation. These officers and their families served theirs every day, and they will forever be remembered as heroes.”
Weber County officials are now leading the homicide investigation, while Bate remains in custody on aggravated murder charges.
Crime
Luca Hanlon, 19, Killed in Halloween Night Shooting Near CU Boulder Campus; Another Student Critically Injured
BOULDER, Colo. — What should have been a night of Halloween celebration turned into a devastating tragedy in Boulder after a shooting at a party near the University of Colorado Boulder campus claimed the life of 19-year-old student Luca Hanlon and left another student critically injured.
Hanlon, also 19, was identified as one of the victims of the shooting, which occurred on Saturday night, October 31, near the University Hill neighborhood.
According to the information provided, the shooting happened at approximately 11:28 p.m. at a residence near the intersection of Seventh and Marine streets.
The gathering was reportedly a Halloween party attended by young people in the area. However, the celebration was shattered when gunfire erupted, leaving two 19-year-old CU Boulder students wounded.
Luca Hanlon suffered fatal injuries and was killed in the shooting. Another 19-year-old student was also struck by gunfire and left in critical condition.
Halloween is traditionally a time for costumes, gatherings, and celebrations, particularly among college students. For those present that night, however, the evening became a frightening and heartbreaking experience.
The loss of a 19-year-old student is especially devastating. At an age when many young people are beginning to pursue their ambitions, build friendships, and look ahead to the future, Hanlon’s life was tragically cut short.
The shooting also left another young student fighting for their life, adding to the heartbreak surrounding the incident.
Luca Hanlon was just 19 years old. His death represents a profound loss for those who knew and loved him, as well as for the university community affected by this tragedy.
Behind every young life lost is a family, a circle of friends, and a future filled with possibilities that will never have the chance to unfold. His passing is a painful reminder of how quickly an ordinary night can change lives forever.
As the Boulder community reflects on the tragedy, thoughts remain with Hanlon’s loved ones and the injured student as they face an incredibly difficult time.
Our deepest condolences go out to Luca Hanlon’s family, friends, classmates, and everyone affected by this heartbreaking shooting. We also wish the injured student strength and hope for recovery.