Heber City, Utah – A domestic dispute in Heber City turned into a tense, four-hour standoff between two men and law enforcement officers Tuesday evening, following a reported gunfire incident inside a home. The altercation began when an adult victim expressed anger after a suspect allegedly forced several children to brush their teeth with a toothpaste containing essential oils, causing a burning sensation in their mouths.
According to the Heber City Police Department, the situation escalated when the suspect confronted the victim, and a heated argument ensued. As tensions rose, the victim attempted to leave the home, located near 200 W 300 S, along with the children. Police said the suspect became enraged, assaulting the adult victim and two children before firing a weapon multiple times in what authorities described as an act of intimidation.
Neighbors called 911 after hearing gunshots, prompting immediate police response. Officers reached out to the suspect by phone in an attempt to de-escalate the situation. However, when the suspect refused to cooperate and less-lethal force failed to subdue him, a SWAT team was deployed to the scene. The suspect and his roommate barricaded themselves inside the home, refusing to surrender.
The standoff, which lasted for several hours, saw the roommate actively hindering police efforts to engage with the suspect, even threatening officers. Authorities eventually deployed tear gas to force the pair into submission. Both men were taken into custody without further incident.
The primary suspect now faces several serious charges, including two felony counts for possession of a firearm as a restricted person and discharging a firearm, along with 15 misdemeanor charges related to assault, domestic violence, assaulting a police officer, obstruction of justice, drug possession, and intoxication. Law enforcement confirmed that the suspect has a lengthy criminal history, including five prior felony convictions. At the time of the incident, he was serving probation for previous misdemeanor offenses.
The roommate, who was also arrested, faces nine misdemeanor charges for assaulting and interfering with an officer, along with charges for drug possession and intoxication.
The response to the standoff involved multiple law enforcement agencies, a Department of Public Safety helicopter, and a drone unit, which was used to conduct surveillance and ensure no additional individuals were inside the home. The safe resolution of the dangerous situation was attributed to the coordinated efforts of the various agencies involved.
In a statement, the Heber City Police Department expressed gratitude to all officers and agencies that contributed to resolving the incident, reinforcing their commitment to the safety of the community. Authorities also emphasized their determination to hold those who threaten public safety accountable for their actions.
The incident highlights the potential for even minor domestic disputes to escalate into dangerous situations, underlining the need for law enforcement preparedness and community vigilance.