On the evening of January 8, 2026, the quiet neighborhood in South Ogden, Utah, was shattered by the sound of gunfire, an event that would ultimately claim the life of 45-year-old Brandon Kay. A devoted husband, father, and grandfather, Kay was at his home on the 1300 block of 5800 South when the disturbance began. Hearing the commotion, he stepped outside to investigate, an act of concern for his community that tragically placed him in the path of immense danger.
From a neighboring
home, James Joseph Rios, 45, had allegedly begun firing a weapon. As Brandon Kay emerged from his residence, he was struck by two bullets, one in the stomach and another in the head. In the chaos, one of Kay's sons, who had also come out to see what was happening, was shot in the foot. The family's beloved Dachshund, Samson, was also shot and killed during the violent outburst. Emergency services were called to the scene around 10 p.m. as the situation escalated into a standoff with the armed neighbor.
After a tense period, Rios surrendered to the large contingent of law enforcement that had responded to the active shooter situation. He was taken into custody in the early hours of the following morning. Inside his home, authorities discovered a rifle and numerous bullet casings. According to charging documents, Rios later confessed to the shootings, attributing his actions to "internal anger," though a more specific motive was not immediately provided.
Brandon Kay was rushed to the hospital with critical injuries. For several days, he fought for his life, but tragically succumbed to his wounds and passed away on January 13, 2026. Following his death, the charges against James Joseph Rios were amended to include aggravated murder. He also faces a litany of other serious charges, including six counts of attempted aggravated murder for firing at others, including his own daughter and responding police officers, five counts of felony discharge of a firearm, and one count of aggravated cruelty to an animal. Rios is currently being held without bail in the Weber County Jail. The community has been left to mourn the loss of a man remembered for his kindness, strong work ethic, and unwavering dedication to his family and faith.
