On the evening of June 20, 2025, in Herriman, Utah, 22-year-old Caucasian male Bridjer Scott Ehlers was fatally shot in the chest. The incident occurred at approximately 9:30 p.m. inside a residence on South Blayde Drive. Herriman police officers and paramedics responded to a report of shots fired and initiated life-saving measures, but Ehlers succumbed to his injuries at the scene.
An 18-year-old acquaintance, Alexander Okustino Finau, was arrested in connection with the shooting.
Finau was visiting Ehlers at the time of the incident. According to reports, Finau was handling a firearm when it discharged, striking Ehlers. He was subsequently booked into the Salt Lake County Jail and charged with manslaughter, a second-degree felony.
Witnesses reported that prior to the shooting, Ehlers and Finau were engaged in what was described as "horseplay," pushing each other jokingly. One witness stated that Finau was pointing two handguns at Ehlers, who had his hands up as he moved backward into a room. Shortly after, a gunshot was heard. After the shooting, Finau himself called dispatch, stating the shooting was accidental. Arriving officers found Finau in the front yard, audibly distressed and repeating, "I didn't mean to."
Born on January 13, 2003, in Sandy, Utah, Bridjer Scott Ehlers was known for his contagious smile and magnetic personality. He graduated from Entrada High School in 2022 and was working as an oil technician with plans to further his education in HVAC. His interests included working out, snowboarding, gaming, and playing the guitar. He is survived by his parents, two brothers, and his girlfriend.
