Mason Hunt was a 26-year-old White man and a proud veteran of the U.S. Marine Corps who had served tours in both Iraq and Afghanistan. Born in Salt Lake City, Utah, he was described by loved ones as a kindred spirit who always put others before himself. He had a passion for the outdoors, enjoying snowboarding and the mountains, and had a deep interest in Japanese culture, including anime and video games.
Mason, who had a support dog named Bear, aspired to become a criminal psychologist and was a beloved son, brother, and friend.
On the evening of January 12, 2019, a group of individuals planned a home invasion robbery at the Salt Lake City residence where Mason rented a room. They intended to steal drugs from another resident, believing no one would be home. A housemate who was present heard the intruders force their way in and hid in a bathroom. Unable to connect with 911, she called Mason, who was at work nearby, for help. The intruders, some armed and wearing ski masks, rummaged through the house, left briefly, and then decided to return to steal more items, including drugs, paraphernalia, and a car parked in the driveway.
Mason arrived at the house on Star Crest Drive while the robbery was still in progress. He got out of his vehicle and confronted the individuals as they were exiting the home. During the physical altercation that followed, Mason was struck over the head with a rifle. He was then shot once in the chest. The intruders fled the scene, and Mason was rushed to a hospital in Murray, where he died a short time later.
In the days following the shooting, Salt Lake City police arrested three suspects: Colton James Beed, 20; Chase Anthony Chavira, 20; and a 16-year-old male. The investigation continued, and police determined that Chavira had acted as a lookout while Beed and others entered the home. According to court documents, Beed later told investigators that the 16-year-old had suggested the robbery, believing the residents were out of town.
Colton James Beed, Chase Anthony Chavira, and the juvenile, identified as Nathan Jesus Amaton, were all formally charged as adults in 3rd District Court. Amaton was charged with murder, aggravated burglary, aggravated robbery, and obstructing justice. In December 2019, a fourth suspect, 17-year-old Alexander Steven Nain, was also charged as an adult with murder, four counts of aggravated robbery, and obstructing justice.
As of December 2019, all four men—Colton James Beed, Chase Anthony Chavira, Nathan Jesus Amaton, and Alexander Steven Nain—were formally charged with murder and other felonies, with court proceedings pending.
