Charges Filed Relating to Road Rage Death on S.R. 201

Today, Salt Lake County District Attorney Sim Gill announced that charges have been filed against Thomas Jim Long for an alleged murder that resulted from a road rage incident.

On October 7, 2024, a black Dodge Ram pick-up truck, driven by J.R., merged onto eastbound S.R. 201 from southbound I-215 in front of the defendant.  The defendant then accelerated ahead of J.R. and cut him off while brake checking him.  This pattern continued between the two along the freeway until they collided and crashed into a concrete barrier.

Following the crash, it is alleged that Mr. Long got out of his vehicle and fired 15 rounds at J.R., from a range of no further than three feet, while J.R. was seated in the pick-up with his seatbelt still on. Mr. Long then called 911 to report the collision. During the call, dispatch asked if anyone was injured. Mr. Long responded, “uh he is” and “um a lot” and then laughs. Dispatch asked where the individual was injured. Mr. Long responded, “uh I’m not even going near him,” he then utters “listen this guy threatened my [expletive] life and I’m scared as [expletive] he pulled something from his [expletive] waistband so I shot him.” Dispatch asked where J.R. was shot and the defendant responded that he did not remember. During the autopsy, eight bullets were recovered from J.R.’s body. No weapons were located on J.R.

The defendant is charged with one count of first-degree felony murder, eight counts of first-degree felony discharge of a firearm with serious bodily injury, and six counts of third-degree felony discharge of a firearm.

“Disputes on the road not only impact those involved but it can also put other motorists in danger. Our hearts go out to the family of the deceased,” said Salt Lake County District Attorney Sim Gill. “I also want to thank the investigators from the Utah Highway Patrol for their efforts with this case. All persons accused of wrongdoing are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.”

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