A 17-year-old boy from Utah has been charged with the murders of his mother, Jessica Orton Lyman, 44, and his half-brother, Eli Painter, 8. The Saratoga Springs police arrested the teen on August 14 after a lengthy investigation that included numerous search warrants and forensic analysis. He faces two counts of aggravated murder and obstruction of justice in juvenile court, with the state seeking to transfer the case to adult court.
The incident occurred on March 28, 2025, when police responded to a medical-assist call at the family's residence on Willowbrook Lane. Both victims were found with gunshot wounds and later died despite medical efforts. Surveillance footage captured a figure matching the teen's description in the neighborhood around the time of the shooting, and evidence such as gunshot residue was found on his clothing. Investigators also discovered DNA evidence linking him to the victims.
The police secured the home as a crime scene and conducted extensive documentation and evidence collection. The investigation involved collaboration with the FBI and various local law enforcement agencies. The victims' family expressed their ongoing grief and gratitude for the investigative efforts, emphasizing their desire for justice.