The residents of the town of Enoch City in the US state of Utah are in shock. A family of eight is dead, five minors and three adults all have gunshot wounds. The police made this discovery on Wednesday.
Neighbors describe Enoch City in The New York Times as a tight-knit community where homes are rarely for sale. Everyone knows everyone here, which would make the alleged murder even more shocking.
Children often played nearby, neighbors gave a friendly wave or helped each other clear snow. The children who died would all have gone to the same school.
“We are all shocked”
Alderman Richard Jensen told the paper he cried all night after hearing about the family’s death. Aaron Diamond, a resident of Enoch City, also spoke of a “great family” that he knew well from attending church together. “We are all shocked and heartbroken,” said Diamond. “The people who live here love their neighbors.”
The police are investigating under high pressure
“We don’t know why this happened and we won’t guess,” a community leader told local broadcaster KSL. Police searched the building Thursday evening for clues. There is no danger to the public. Suspects are not believed to be on the loose.
Officials made the discovery during an inspection. Such a check is carried out when local residents report to the police because they have not seen people for an unusually long time, city manager Rob Dotson said in a video statement Thursday evening.
(nad/SDA)