Owner of SUV in deadly West Jordan hit-and-run arrested, admits to filing false stolen vehicle report

The owner of a GMC Yukon involved in a fatal hit-and-run in West Jordan, Utah, has been arrested for falsely reporting the vehicle stolen. However, the actual driver responsible for the accident remains unidentified. The incident took place when 23-year-old Garrett Randall Pace was struck while riding his motorcycle on Gardner Lane, leading to his tragic death.

Following the incident, the abandoned SUV was located the next day, showing significant damage on the passenger side, consistent with the collision. Additionally, crucial evidence was found inside the vehicle, including part of a motorcycle helmet and personal items belonging to Pace. This evidence helped police trace the SUV back to its owner, Sabino Lazaro-Javier.

Initially, Lazaro-Javier denied any involvement, claiming his vehicle had been stolen. However, he later confessed to being aware of the circumstances and the identity of the person driving the SUV at the time of the accident. After discussing the incident with his friend, who was behind the wheel, he reported the vehicle as stolen to authorities and deleted records of his communications with the driver.

As a result of his actions, Lazaro-Javier was charged with two counts of obstruction of justice. Despite the arrest, law enforcement continues to search for the person who was actually driving the Yukon when it struck Pace. The investigation remains ongoing as authorities work to ensure accountability in this tragic case.