Alexander Jose Duran Pirela dies in fatal Fort Hall shooting

Alexander Jose Duran Pirela dies in fatal Fort Hall shooting

Fatal Fort Hall shooting death of Alexander Jose Duran Pirela – Obituary

Alexander Jose Duran Pirela, a 27-year-old Venezuelan man living legally in Mapleton, Utah on a work visa, was discovered dead in a vehicle along Interstate 15 near Fort Hall earlier this year. Authorities report he had suffered multiple gunshot wounds.

Investigators say crucial evidence came from photos Duran Pirela had taken and sent from his phone shortly before his death. These images, captured just hours earlier, played a key role in identifying the suspect and moving the investigation forward.

Police have since arrested 37-year-old Joaquin Jose “Colombiano” Gonzalez Mendoza of Utah. He has been formally charged with the murder of Duran Pirela, according to court documents and police statements obtained by the Idaho State Journal.

The case underscores how digital communication and quick thinking by the victim contributed significantly to bringing a suspect into custody.