Student dies from gunshot wound on field trip in Provo Canyon, officials say

SALT LAKE CITY — The Alpine School District said counseling was available to students Wednesday, after a ninth-grader was reportedly injured by a self-inflicted gunshot while on a field trip.

Dr. Rich Stowell, the director of communications for the district, said the student was taken to a hospital with severe injuries and their family was notified. The Utah County Sheriff’s Office later confirmed the student had died.

The incident reportedly took place at South Fork Park in Provo Canyon. Stowell said all other students on the field trip were safe.

“Some students witnessed the incident. Counseling resources are available at the school and will be for as long as needed,” Stowell said. “We will share additional resources with the school community in our communications with them.”

Stowell said the district was working with police, medical personnel and counselors after the shooting.

The Alpine School District released the following statement Wednesday evening:

We are heartbroken as a school district at the passing of one of our students today, a 9th grader who went to Canyon View Junior High. We offer deepest condolences to the student’s family and friends. 

School administrators sent an email to parents of Canyon View students this evening explaining the next steps for grieving and healing.

Those steps include offering counseling services to staff, students, and families for as long as needed. We know that adolescents can grieve, process, and recover better when they have a trusted adult to guide them.

We encourage parents to engage in that process, and have provided some resources to them that may help.

Classes will be held as scheduled Thursday and Friday. The school has canceled parent-teacher conferences which were scheduled for tomorrow.

The administrative team at Canyon View has acted with the utmost compassion and professionalism. We are grateful for their love and leadership.