Javen Ryan Welcher dies in fatal West Valley City shooting
Fatal West Valley City shooting death of Javen Ryan Welcher
West Valley City authorities reported a tragic incident on Friday night at a Halloween gathering where a 17-year-old male, later identified as Javen Ryan “Bug” Welcher, was killed following gunfire. A 15-year-old female attendee was also struck by bullets, though she survived her injuries and was described as being in critical condition as of Tuesday.
According to West Valley police, emergency services received a dispatch around 11:00 PM Halloween night regarding disturbances near 2600 West and Westshire Drive. Responding officers encountered a physical altercation that had broken out inside a residence and spilled onto the street outside the Halloween celebration.
Police spokespersons stated that during the chaotic confrontation, several individuals began firing weapons at each other before quickly retreating from the scene.
Shortly after the shooting, emergency personnel were dispatched to a separate crash scene near 5300 S. State, approximately 30 minutes later. This vehicle collision was transporting individuals involved in the party, including Welcher and the injured female teen, to medical facilities. The trigger for this subsequent auto accident remained under investigation.
Further details about the individuals involved in the shooting or the car crash were not immediately available from local law enforcement by Tuesday.
Javen Welcher was remembered by family members as someone known for his distinctive fashion sense and charming smile. He possessed a sharp wit and a talent for making others happy. His interests included basketball and a future aspiration to become a barber.
A memorial viewing for Javen Ryan Welcher is planned for Wednesday.
