Candlelight vigils held for Utah mother shot and killed in her home
Feb 4, 2025, 11:21 AM
ROY — Shock and sadness Monday night as dozens gathered to remember a Utah mother shot and killed in her home.
Santa Clara-Ivins police said a juvenile family member killed 44-year-old Heather Ann Barela and injured 20-year-old Brandon in their Santa Clara home on Friday.
Two vigils were held to remember the mother of seven. One was in Santa Clara, where Barela lived, and the other was at her mother’s home in Roy.
Jennifer Chacon, Barela’s sister, spoke to a crowd of dozens in Roy,
“She would not want us all to be sitting around and crying and feeling sad,” Chacon told friends and family members.
Still, it’s hard for her to believe her sister is gone.
“She was such a bright light in the world, and she really knew how to laugh,” Chacon said.
She also said her sister could connect with anyone, which was one of her many gifts.
Police said a teen family member is in jail on charges connected to Barela’s death and the shooting of her son.
Heather and her husband have two biological sons. They are known for adopting foster children and have five other boys.
Aurora, Heather’s niece, said she loved spending time with her cousins and will miss her aunt.
Aurora loved spending time with her cousins and will miss her aunt
“I pray every day that a tragedy like this doesn’t happen to other people,” Chacon said.
A GoFundMe has been set up* to help Barela’s husband with funeral costs and to support their children.
*KSL TV does not assure that the money deposited to the account will be applied for the benefit of the persons named as beneficiaries. If you are considering a deposit to the account, you should consult your own advisors and otherwise proceed at your own risk.