University of Utah shooting suspect found dead in SLC church, Report.
The man suspected of shooting and killing a female University of Utah student on campus was found dead early Tuesday morning.
Melvin Rowland, 37, was found dead of an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound in a downtown Salt Lake City church.
University of Utah police got word that Rowland was in the area of the Trinity AME Church located at 239 East 600 South. They called Salt Lake City police to assist. SLCPD officers responded and found Rowland about a block away. A foot pursuit ensued, and they chased Rowland to the church and realized he had broken into the building.
Officers eventually found Rowland dead in one of the rooms inside the church.
Police believe just before 9 p.m. Monday Rowland shot and killed a female University of Utah student during a dispute. Police weren’t sure of the exact nature of their relationship but said they were acquaintances.
A campus alert was sent out advising all students and staff to shelter in place.
The woman was later found dead inside a vehicle on campus.
Multiple agencies responded to campus to help search for Rowland. Officers canvassed the immediate area, all of the campus and the surrounding area looking for Rowland.
The shelter-in-place for the campus was lifted at 11:50 p.m. when police believed Rowland had left the area and was no longer a threat to campus.
Police said there would be continued police activity throughout the night. Students and staff are asked to avoid the Medical Towers area.
Governor Gary Herbert shared his condolences following the shooting. “My heart goes out to all who have been dealing with the tragic #UofUShooting tonight,” he said in a tweet.
The university announced all morning and evening classes are canceled for Tuesday, Oct. 23, but campus services and facilities will remain open. Support services will be made available for students, faculty and staff.
