Chinese Student in Utah Fatally Shot in Carjacking, Suspect Still at Large

October 31, 2017

ChenWei Guo, a Chinese student at the University of Utah, was shot dead in a carjacking near the school on Monday, prompting a lockdown as a search for the suspected gunman continues.

University of Utah Police Chief Dale Brophy said authorities are searching for Austin Boutain, 24, who is suspected of shooting Guo outside the campus’ eastern border.

He was last seen in a green pickup truck which is believed to be stolen from a separate killing in Golden, Colorado, the New York Daily News reported.

Boutain’s wife was also taken into custody in Salt Lake City after police received a report about a man with a gunshot wound to the head.

Heavy.com identified his wife as Kathleen, who came to the school and claimed that her husband had assaulted her while they camped in Red Butte Garden in the Emigration Canyon, where a gun and ammo were also found.

Authorities believe that Boutain is in the foothills above the canyon, which will be closed for the entire day on Tuesday, but are continuing the search on campus.

Cops described Boutain as having a cross tattoo on his face near his right eye, wearing black clothes, and is considered armed and dangerous.

Guo was studying pre-computer science, and was a peer adviser in the international Student and Scholar Services Office, President David W. Pershing said in a statement Tuesday morning, adding that the shooting was a “senseless, random act of violence.”

The University of Utah has been in touch with Guo’s parents in China, according to the Associated Press.

Guo’s Facebook has been converted into a tribute page for the deceased student, with one friend, Jake Jung, writing, “I am in total shock. Elder ChenWei Guo, you will be missed. You have touched the lives of so many people and I believe you will continue to do so.”

Other offered their own tributes:

The university canceled classes on Tuesday after it sent a lockdown alert at 9 p.m. to students and staff, but it was lifted six hours later.

“Fervent prayers for all dealing with the #UofUShooting tonight. Stay safe and follow directions to shelter in place,” Utah’s Governor Gary Herbert tweeted out.

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