A second man has been arrested in connection with the May 30 fatal shooting of 71-year-old West Point resident James Witten, according to a statement from the Davis County Sheriff’s Office. The arrest follows months of investigation into the homicide that occurred in late May.
Second Suspect Apprehended
Abner Aroldo Avila, 21, was taken into custody in California, Gephardt Daily reported on July 17. Following his arrest, officials confirmed that Avila is currently being held while awaiting extradition to Utah to face charges.
The Davis County Attorney’s Office issued an arrest warrant charging Avila with one count of murder. The investigation into the death of Witten continues as law enforcement works to bring the suspect before the Utah court system.
Previous Arrest in Las Vegas
The capture of Avila marks the second major development in the homicide investigation since the shooting occurred on May 30. The Davis County Sheriff’s Office previously announced the arrest of Axel Eduardo Chavez Marroquin, 24, in connection with the same case.
Marroquin was apprehended by officials from the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department. Following his arrest in Nevada, he was booked into the Davis County jail on June 29. He faces allegations including murder related to the West Point incident.
Ongoing Investigation Status
In a statement regarding the recent developments, the Davis County Sheriff’s Office expressed gratitude to the various law enforcement agencies that contributed to the ongoing investigation. The department specifically noted its appreciation for the assistance provided by the agencies involved in both the initial investigations and the subsequent apprehensions of the suspects.
While two individuals are now in custody, the sheriff's office indicated that the investigation remains active. At this time, authorities have not released further details regarding the specific circumstances of the May 30 shooting or the roles played by the two men.
Legal Proceedings Ahead
The death of James Witten has prompted significant law enforcement activity across state lines, involving agencies in Utah, California, and Nevada. As the legal process moves forward with Avila's extradition, the Davis County Attorney’s Office will proceed with the murder prosecution.
