by Kylee Boyter
kboyter@cherryroad.com

The Sevier County Attorney’s Office filed a criminal charge of negligent homicide in the death of James M. Allen, which occurred on Friday, October 4. Darren James Ence Jr., is scheduled to be in court for the initial appearance on December 10.

On October 4 at 7:38 p.m. a 911 call came in reporting an individual in a UTV was in an accident and emergency medical help was needed.

“As deputies and EMT’s arrived it was discovered the 82-year-old male victim, James Allen, of Richfield, had been struck by a bullet,” said Sheriff Nathan Curtis. “Life saving measures were taken and James was airlifted by medical helicopter to Utah Valley Medical Center where he later passed away.”

The bullet was fired by DJ Ence of Elsinore who was stated to have been shooting at a skunk. Due to some environmental conditions the UTV was not seen or heard until after the shot and the UTV veered off the canal road and cross a field.

“At this time the evidence and statements are still being processed,” said Sheriff Curtis. “We offer our sincere condolences to the Allen family.”

As more information is release, the Richfield Reaper will continue to cover the developing case.