Murder suspect dies as police continue investigation

Christian A. Emerson, 26, of Smithfield accused of shooting Amanda Lee Hoyt, 26, Saturday night, February 7 in North Logan. 

LOGAN — Police say the suspect in Saturday night’s murder in North Logan died Tuesday night.

North Park Police Chief Kim Hawkes said 26-year-old Christian Emerson died at a Salt Lake City area hospital. He had been unconscious and on a ventilator since being airlifted from the Cache Valley Hospital.

Police believe Emerson shot his girlfriend, 26-year-old Amanda Lee Hoyt before shooting himself in the head. The two were found inside a white Subaru near 2950 North 1800 East.

Hoyt was pronounced dead at the scene. Emerson was found unconscious but still breathing.

Hawkes said police are still investigating the case. They are waiting for forensic tests to confirm Emerson’s fingerprints were on the handgun. They are also continuing to interview people who knew the two.

Hawkes said the case will remain open until investigators can establish what happened and a motive.

Funeral services for Hoyt will be held Thursday at an LDS chapel in North Logan.

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