A tragic road rage incident in Utah led to the death of a 61-year-old man, Patrick Hayes, who was shot and killed by another motorist during a confrontation. The shooter, identified as Greg Kyle DeBoer, 62, claimed self-defense, stating he acted after being approached aggressively by Hayes. Despite the fatal outcome, authorities have only charged DeBoer with obstruction of justice for burying the weapon and ammunition used in the incident, leaving the victim’s family devastated.
According to investigators, the events unfolded at Jordanelle State Park following a road rage dispute. Surveillance footage showed the two vehicles entering the park, where Hayes allegedly exited his vehicle and approached DeBoer’s car with a metal baton and pocketknife. DeBoer, armed with a .45-caliber handgun loaded with rare hollow-point ammunition, opened fire, resulting in Hayes’ death. An autopsy later confirmed that Hayes was killed by a single .45-caliber Black Talon bullet, an uncommon type of ammunition that has been out of production for over two decades.
DeBoer admitted to shooting Hayes during questioning, claiming self-defense. He also confessed to burying the handgun and ammunition near his home after the incident. Investigators retrieved the firearm, a Kimber 1911, along with the ammunition during a search of DeBoer’s property. Despite his confession and the recovery of evidence, DeBoer has not been charged with murder. Instead, he faces a second-degree felony charge for obstruction of justice, a decision that has left the Hayes family frustrated and heartbroken.
Patrick Hayes’ son, Christian Hayes, expressed disbelief over the circumstances surrounding his father’s death. He questioned the self-defense claim, emphasizing that the act of following someone negates the justification for such a defense. Describing his father as a “larger-than-life” figure, Christian shared the family’s struggle to cope with the loss, particularly during the holiday season.
The Hayes family has maintained that the killing was unjustified, rejecting DeBoer’s self-defense narrative. They continue to seek justice, holding onto hope that the investigation will ultimately reveal the truth. While DeBoer’s recent arrest provided a sense of relief, the family remains resolute in their belief that the shooting was a deliberate act of violence.
The case has sparked widespread discussion about the limits of self-defense and the responsibilities of individuals involved in violent encounters. As the legal process unfolds, the Hayes family is determined to honor Patrick’s memory and advocate for accountability in his death.
