Jeremy Brian Jacques, a 48-year-old white male from Mountain View, Wyoming, was tragically killed on August 31, 2024, during the Fort Bridger Rendezvous weekend. Born in Provo, Utah, Jeremy spent much of his life in Wyoming, where he developed a deep love for hunting, fishing, and art. Known for his vibrant personality and generosity, Jeremy was a talented tattoo artist and a beloved member of his community.
He was survived by his wife, April Jaques, his children, grandchildren, siblings, and many extended family members and friends who cherished him deeply.
The fatal incident occurred near the Fort Bridger Post Office, where Uinta County Deputy Sheriff Rowdy Dean responded to reports of an active shooter. Upon arrival, emergency medical personnel were already attending to Jeremy, who had sustained multiple gunshot wounds to his torso and arms. Despite their efforts, life-saving measures were ultimately ceased, and Jeremy was pronounced dead at the scene. Investigators recovered ten spent. 45-caliber shell casings near his body, indicating the severity of the attack.
Skyler Gray, a 36-year-old male from Lyman, Wyoming, was arrested and charged with first-degree murder in connection with Jeremy's death. Witnesses reported that Gray arrived at the scene in an older Dodge pickup truck and confronted Jeremy about an alleged debt. The confrontation escalated quickly, with Gray allegedly pulling a black pistol and firing multiple rounds at Jeremy from close range. Witnesses stated that Jeremy fell to the ground after the initial shots, and Gray continued to fire additional rounds before fleeing the scene.
A second individual, Shadawn Oehler, a 34-year-old female, was also charged with accessory after the fact. She was present during the shooting and reportedly left the scene with Gray and several children in the vehicle. Oehler later told authorities that she was unsure of what had transpired but confirmed that Gray had approached Jeremy to speak with him before the shooting began. She claimed to have heard gunshots and returned to the truck to protect the children inside.
Skyler Gray was taken into custody and held at the Uinta County Detention Center on a $100,000 cash-only bond. In early 2025, Gray entered a plea of not guilty by reason of mental illness, though prosecutors have stated they are not pursuing the death penalty in this case. The investigation and legal proceedings continue as the community mourns the loss of Jeremy Brian Jacques, a 48-year-old white male whose life was cut short in a senseless act of violence.
