Clinton, Utah – A man is recovering in the hospital after being shot three times by another man with a handgun on Sunday afternoon, according to the Clinton Police Department.
The suspect, Toby Anthony Rodriguez, 34, has been detained at the Davis County Jail on suspicion of various felony charges, including murder, discharge of a firearm, and possession of a firearm by a restricted individual. Additionally, Rodriguez faces a misdemeanor charge for possession of drug paraphernalia.
Authorities were alerted to the incident following a report of a man with gunshot wounds near 1090 N. 750 West around 4:45 p.m. Officers found the victim at a neighbor’s residence with injuries to his abdomen and ear. Rodriguez was apprehended outside the house holding a shotgun.
During an interview at the police station, Rodriguez confessed to consuming a significant amount of marijuana and alcohol prior to the incident. He admitted to shooting the victim multiple times with a handgun, with shell casings found at the scene matching the firearm used in the assault.
After undergoing surgery, the victim recounted being shot at numerous times by Rodriguez, who also made threatening statements towards the victim’s family. The victim expressed concerns for their safety, noting Rodriguez’s remarks about having nothing to live for and potentially harming others.
Law enforcement officials are continuing their investigation into the incident to gather additional information and determine the circumstances leading up to the shooting. The motive behind the attack and any prior relationship between the suspect and victim are also being scrutinized.
As the victim continues to recover from their injuries, the community remains shaken by the violence that occurred in their neighborhood. Counseling and support services may be made available to those affected by the incident, as authorities work to ensure the safety and well-being of residents in Clinton.
Efforts to enhance communication and trust between law enforcement and the community are ongoing, with a focus on preventing similar acts of violence in the future. The Clinton Police Department has urged residents to report any suspicious activity or concerns promptly to maintain a secure and peaceful environment for all.