A 35-year-old Salt Lake City man was arrested Sunday night after police say he told officers he tried to kill a woman because she "did not believe" him.
Garrett Thomas Stewart was booked into the Salt Lake County Jail on suspicion of attempted murder, causing property damage and public intoxication, according to police. The woman was taken to a local hospital, where she was listed in good condition.
Officers responded just after 8:30 p.m. to reports of a fight near 1700 East Harvard Avenue and found a woman with blood on her face and an open laceration above her right eye, according to a police booking affidavit cited by KSL. Stewart was still at the scene. The affidavit notes he "did not appear able to maintain his own weight" while officers tried to place him in a patrol car.
The affidavit states that Stewart admitted punching out a vehicle window, told police he "was trying to kill her because she did not believe him," and admitted to consuming "shrooms."
Scene And Booking
Police booked Stewart on investigation of attempted murder, property damage, and public intoxication before taking him to the Salt Lake County Jail. The woman was transported to a nearby hospital for treatment and was reported in good condition as the investigation continued.
Authorities have not released additional details about a possible motive beyond what is described in the affidavit.
What The Charges Could Mean
Attempted murder is treated as a serious offense under Utah law, and prosecutors may pursue felony charges depending on the evidence and circumstances, according to the Utah Legislature. State statutes classify homicide-related offenses and list aggravating factors that can increase penalties.
As with any arrest, Stewart is presumed innocent unless and until prosecutors file formal charges and a court determines guilt.
Salt Lake City police say the investigation is ongoing and did not immediately provide further comment. Stewart remains in custody at the Salt Lake County Jail pending review by prosecutors. Anyone with information about the incident is asked to contact the Salt Lake City Police Department.
