Authorities have identified the three women killed in a series of murders in rural Utah that prompted a multi-state manhunt across the western United States. Investigators say Ivan Miller, 22, of Blakesburg, Iowa, has been charged with three counts of aggravated murder in connection with the killings. Prosecutors allege the attacks were carried out to steal vehicles and obtain money to travel back to Iowa.
The investigation began Wednesday when Wayne County dispatchers received a report of two women found dead along a hiking trail near Torrey, Utah. The victims were identified as Natalie Graves and Linda Dewey, who were related as niece and aunt. Officials said the women had traveled to the area for a hike and were discovered by their husbands after failing to return. Their bodies were found in a dry creek bed, with signs of gunshot and stab wounds, and their vehicle was missing.
As the investigation expanded, authorities discovered a third victim, Margaret Oldroyd, who had been killed at her home in Lyman, Utah. Prosecutors say Miller had been staying in a shed on Oldroyd’s property after his vehicle was damaged days earlier near Capitol Reef National Park. Charging documents allege Miller shot Oldroyd while she was watching television, hid her body in a cellar beneath a shed, and stole her Buick.
Investigators allege Miller later targeted Graves and Dewey, killing them and taking their Subaru to continue his travels. The killings prompted a multi-state search, with authorities tracking Miller through Utah, northern Arizona, and into Colorado. The stolen Subaru was later abandoned near Pagosa Springs, where officers ultimately arrested Miller. He was reportedly armed with a knife and a .45-caliber pistol at the time of his arrest.
Officials say Miller admitted he committed the killings to obtain vehicles and credit cards and that the victims were strangers, making the attacks opportunistic rather than personal. The investigation remains active as authorities review evidence and prepare formal charges, with additional details expected as court proceedings move forward.
