Crime
17-year-old female killed in drive-by shooting on Iron County roadway
On the evening of January 17, 2025, Iron County Sheriff’s deputies responded to a 911 call reporting gunfire targeting a vehicle.
Upon arrival at the intersection of Midvalley Road and 4300 West, law enforcement and Gold Cross Ambulance found a 17-year-old female driver critically injured inside her vehicle.
Victim killed in Cedar City drive-by shooting identified as 17-year-old KayLee Joan Hunter
Deputies began life-saving efforts immediately while paramedics prepared for her transport to Cedar City Hospital.
Despite their combined efforts, the young victim tragically succumbed to her injuries shortly after arrival.
Crime scene experts and investigators from the Iron County Sheriff’s Office quickly arrived to process the scene.
Early findings suggest the victim’s vehicle was being pursued by an unknown vehicle for several miles before the incident.
The suspect pulled alongside the victim’s car and fired multiple gunshots, striking the driver. This caused the victim to lose control of her vehicle, which left the roadway, crashing through a vinyl fence before coming to rest approximately 100 feet northwest of the intersection.
The Sheriff’s Office is actively seeking information from the public to aid in the investigation.
Between 10:15 PM and 11:00 PM, investigators believe a small red pickup truck was being followed closely by a dark-colored truck or SUV on Lund Highway near 1600 North and Midvalley Road or heading west on Midvalley Road toward the Three Peaks Campground area.
Witness accounts or surveillance footage of this activity could provide critical leads.
Additionally, residents or business owners along Lund Highway or Midvalley Road with surveillance camera footage from that time frame are encouraged to contact authorities.
If you have any information regarding this incident or footage, please contact the following numbers:
- Iron County Sheriff’s Office: 435-867-7500
- Cedar Dispatch (Non-Emergency): 435-586-9445
The Iron County Sheriff’s Office extends its heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of the victim during this difficult time. We also express our sincere gratitude to the Cedar City Police Department, Enoch City Police, the Department of Public Safety, Cedar City Fire Department, and the dedicated personnel of Gold Cross Ambulance for their quick response and assistance.
The Iron County Sheriff’s Office remains committed to ensuring public safety and pursuing justice for the victim. We ask for the community’s assistance in bringing the perpetrator to justice.
Crime
17-Year-Old Javohn Pitts Critically Injured in Accidental Shooting During FaceTime Call in Elsmere, Kentucky
A 17-year-old teenager, identified as Javohn Pitts, remains in critical condition after being shot in the head during an incident involving a handgun at a residence in Elsmere, Kentucky, on Saturday. Police say the shooting appears to have occurred while two juveniles were showing the firearm to others during a FaceTime call.
The incident prompted an emergency response in Northern Kentucky and left the teenager with potentially life-threatening injuries. He was transported by helicopter to a Cincinnati hospital, where he continues to receive medical treatment.
According to the Elsmere Police Department, officers were dispatched to a reported shooting in the 100 block of Garvey Avenue early Saturday afternoon.
When first responders arrived, they found Javohn Pitts suffering from a gunshot wound to the head. Due to the seriousness of his injuries, emergency personnel arranged for him to be airlifted to University of Cincinnati Medical Center.
Pitts remains hospitalized in critical condition, according to the information provided by police. Authorities have not released further details about his medical condition or prognosis.
During their investigation, police recovered a 9mm handgun from the residence.
Investigators believe the shooting happened while Pitts and another juvenile, who was acquainted with him, were displaying the handgun to other people during a FaceTime call. At some point during the incident, the firearm discharged, striking Pitts in the head.
Although the incident is being described as an apparent accidental shooting, authorities are continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding the discharge and the events leading up to it.
A juvenile suspect was subsequently arrested in connection with the incident. Police reported that the suspect was acquainted with Pitts and has been charged with second-degree assault with a deadly weapon.
Because the individual is a juvenile, authorities have not publicly released the suspect’s identity.
The investigation remains ongoing, and additional information about the incident may be released as authorities continue reviewing the evidence.
Police are asking anyone who may have information about the shooting to contact the Kenton County Emergency Communication Center at 859-356-3191 or the Elsmere Police Department at 859-474-4785.
Information from witnesses or anyone familiar with the circumstances may help investigators establish a clearer account of what happened inside the Garvey Avenue residence.
At just 17 years old, Javohn Pitts is facing a serious medical battle following the shooting. His critical condition has left those who care about him hoping for positive news as he receives treatment.
The incident is also a sobering reminder of the dangers associated with handling firearms, particularly when a weapon is displayed or handled without proper safety precautions. A firearm can discharge unexpectedly, with consequences that may permanently change lives.
As the investigation continues, thoughts remain with Javohn Pitts, his family, and everyone hoping for his recovery. May he receive the care and support he needs during this difficult time.