A man from Utah has been charged with murder after the body of his former girlfriend was discovered in his car. Jacob Johnson, aged 40, was stopped by police in Saratoga Springs on December 31, suspected of driving under the influence.
When officers approached Johnson’s vehicle, they found the body of 30-year-old Summer Roney in the back seat. According to police reports, Roney had suffered significant injuries that suggested she had been murdered.
During questioning, Johnson revealed that he and Roney had previously been in a relationship and had lived together in Herriman, but he stated that their relationship had ended. However, Johnson admitted to having a physical argument with Roney, but provided little detail about what happened. He did mention that Roney had injuries but did not elaborate further.
Roney’s family reported that they last saw her on Christmas Day, and she was due to work on the Monday afternoon prior to the discovery of her body. Sadly, she missed her shift, sparking concern that led to her being found about 10 hours later.
In a statement released through their attorney, Roney’s family described her as a “vibrant, kind, and loving soul,” expressing their heartbreak over her unexpected loss. They asked for privacy as they mourn the passing of someone so beloved.
Johnson is currently facing a first-degree felony murder charge and is being held without bail at the Salt Lake County Metro Jail. The investigation into Roney’s death is ongoing, as police continue to gather information about the incident.