Sandy shooting victim dead, homicide suspect identified, Candice Melo, 26 died just after 4 p.m. Thursday of multiple gunshot wounds, including wounds to her head and torso. Melo, 26, was found lying in a driveway Thursday morning after police responded to a call just after 7 a.m..
According to police reports, the man arrested Thursday morning as the suspect in the shooting was Larry Kent Graff, 52. With Melo’s death, the charges against Graff will be amended to one count homicide and one count attempted homicide according to police.
Initially Melo was thought to be dead when she was found in the drive but later a faint pulse was found and she was transported to IMC Hospital in extremely critical condition.
Police, responding about 7 a.m., say there was an argument in a Sandy home and Graff chased Melo and another victim, Michael Grimsley outside firing shots and striking Melo. Grimsley was not injured.
Early reports indicate Graff and Melo lived in the same house though their relationship is unknown.According to the probable cause statement, Graff didn't feel threatened by the couple but he "just wanted them to leave the house."
Melo had stayed at the house for about a week and Grimsley stayed the night. The report said Graff "intentionally fired his weapon at Melo as she ran away from his house."
Initial reports suggested signs of a struggle on the front porch: significant blood loss and a bloody hand print on the front door. When emergency responders arrived to the scene it appeared Melo was dead at the end of the driveway.
"When they first arrived on scene they were assessing the injuries, with a gunshot wound to the head they could not find any indication or signs she was alive," said Sgt. Dean Carriger.
Melo was covered by a sheet and thought to be dead. After further assessment a faint pulse was found. The woman was shot three times; once in the head, thigh and hip. She was rushed to the hospital.
Graff, identified by a witness, was taken into custody at the scene and was interviewed by investigators and told them he shot at Melo and Grimsley. The shooting took place on Gary Avenue, about 300 East near 9400 South.
The cause of death will be determined by the Medical Examiner following an autopsy.
Formal charges will be determined by the Salt Lake County District Attorney.
