The Uintah County Sheriff's Office is investigating an unsolved homicide that took place on November 26, 1972. Gregory Dahl Nickell was killed during an encounter with an unknown male suspect while parked at a scenic view west of Vernal, Utah.
According to investigators, the incident began at approximately 0110 hours when Nickell was seated in his vehicle with a female passenger. An unknown male suspect approached the car, and after Nickell rolled down his window, the suspect shot him several times.
The suspect entered the vehicle, pushed Nickell into the passenger side, and drove away following another vehicle. The vehicle was later found about 30 miles southwest of Vernal near a local reservoir in Uintah County. It had been set on fire, and the body of Nickell was discovered inside.
A female passenger was also involved in the incident. She was forced into a second vehicle and held captive while being driven through Uintah and Duchesne counties for several hours. During this time, she was raped by both suspects. The woman was eventually released in Duchesne County, where she reached a nearby farmhouse and contacted law enforcement.
Anyone with information that could assist with this case is encouraged to contact the Uintah County Sheriff’s Office of Investigation at (435) 789-2511. Additionally, tips can be provided via the Cold Case Tip Hotline at 833-DPS-SAFE (833-377-7233).
