Brody Young’s shooter’s remains confirmed

SALT LAKE CITY – The Utah Division of State Parks and Recreation remain appreciative of the continued commitment of the Grand County Sheriff’s Office and local residents who searched for Lance Leeroy Arellano, the suspect in the shooting involving State Parks Ranger Brody Young on Nov. 19, 2010.

With the Utah Medical Examiner’s Office’s positive identification of Arellano’s remains, we hope Brody, his family, and other impacted by this tragic incident can continue to move forward and find additional closure.

We are also mindful of Arellano’s family and how difficult the last five years have been for them – unaware of the whereabouts of their loved one.

State Parks rangers, along with all law enforcement personnel, put their lives on the line everyday in the service of their communities and we thank them for their dedication and sacrifice.

In this incident, Brody approached what appeared to be a routine vehicle check, unaware of what he was walking into. While his experience serves as a harsh reminder of these dangers, we express our appreciation for our parks rangers and all law enforcement throughout the state.

Brody continues to be an inspiration for everyone at the division. Not only were his actions heroic at the time of the shooting, but he and his family have demonstrated tremendous courage during his long recovery and return to work over a year later.

Since the time of the confrontation, Brody has shared his experience and lessons learned with many law enforcement personnel, both within the department and throughout the state. He remains employed with State Parks and is now the assistant coordinator for Utah’s statewide boating program.

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Media Contact Information

Eugene Swalberg
Utah State Parks and Recreation
435-820-1247

Nathan Schwebach
Utah Dept. of Natural Resources
801-440-9094