In a shocking and tragic event, three women were fatally shot in Wayne County, Utah, by an Iowa man with no prior connection to the victims. The alleged shooter, Ivan W. Miller, 22, from Blakesburg, Iowa, reportedly stated that shooting the women was necessary to steal their cars. The victims have been identified as 86-year-old Margaret Oldroyd, 65-year-old Linda Dewey, and 34-year-old Natalie Graves.
Authorities reported that Miller was charged on Thursday with three counts of aggravated murder after his arrest near Pagosa Springs, Colorado. He allegedly killed Oldroyd at her home in Lyman and Dewey and Graves while they were hiking on the Cockscomb Trail—both in separate incidents. The Utah Department of Public Safety confirmed that Oldroyd and Dewey were related, but emphasized there was no known connection between them and Oldroyd as their fates intertwined in the brutal killings.
Miller’s confession revealed a chilling account of his actions. He claimed to have hit an elk in Utah days prior, subsequently selling his truck to a towing company and staying in a local hotel. During an interview with authorities, Miller admitted to entering Oldroyd’s home, where he shot her while she was watching television, then concealed her body in a basement.
In another grim episode, Miller stated he encountered Dewey and Graves at the trailhead, where he shot both women. His violence escalated, and he reportedly stabbed Graves multiple times after she was shot. Miller later attempted to use the victims’ credit cards in efforts to navigate his escape back to Iowa.
Law enforcement worked quickly to track Miller after the three deaths prompted a multi-county manhunt across southern Utah. Utilizing technology such as license plate readers, they tracked a vehicle stolen from one of the victims across state lines, leading them to Miller’s location in Colorado. Upon his arrest, he was found with concealed weapons and items belonging to the victims.
The heartbreaking loss has deeply affected the community, prompting local officials to extend their condolences. Wayne County Sheriff Cameron Roden urged residents to remain vigilant, highlighting the importance of community solidarity during such a trying time. All schools in the region canceled classes out of caution, providing a supportive environment for students and teachers upon their return.
Mayor Mickey Wright expressed his sympathies, noting this painful incident would not be forgotten easily. He praised the rapid response of law enforcement and emphasized the strength of their community in the wake of tragedy.
As the investigation continues, the shared grief is palpable in Wayne County, a community that now seeks healing and support for those impacted by these brutal events.