Full Breakdown
Manslaughter Charges Filed After Fatal Shooting During Firearm Drills in Roy, Utah
3/12/2026, 10:51:46 AM
Incident Overview
Benjamin Garrett Davis, a 24-year-old resident of Roy, Utah, has been charged with manslaughter following the fatal shooting of his friend during a firearm training exercise. The incident occurred on Sunday, when both men were reportedly engaged in quick draw drills with their handguns inside Davis's apartment. According to police reports, Davis pointed his gun at his friend and pulled the trigger, believing the firearm was unloaded. The victim was shot in the head and later pronounced dead at a hospital.
Details of the Incident
Roy police responded to a report of a shooting at Davis's residence, located at 4608 S. 1900 West. Upon arrival, they found Davis kneeling beside the victim, who had sustained a gunshot wound to the head. Court documents indicate that Davis repeatedly stated, "the shooting was his fault." Security footage from the apartment captured the moments leading up to the shooting, showing both men drawing their firearms and pointing them at each other. During one drill, Davis discharged his weapon, striking the victim, who then collapsed.
Charges Filed
Davis faces multiple charges, including manslaughter, a second-degree felony; reckless endangerment, a class A misdemeanor; and committing a violent offense in the presence of a child, a class B misdemeanor. Notably, a 2-year-old child was present in the apartment during the incident, which contributed to the additional charge. The child was seen walking near the two men as they handled their firearms.
Official Statements & Responses
Davis's admission to police that he believed his gun was unloaded has been a focal point in the investigation. The police affidavit states that video evidence shows Davis with a panicked expression immediately after the shooting, dropping his firearm. The Weber County Jail is currently holding Davis without bail.
Criticism & Opposition
The incident has raised concerns regarding firearm safety practices, particularly in the presence of children. Critics argue that engaging in such drills without ensuring the firearms are completely unloaded poses significant risks. The presence of a child during the incident has intensified scrutiny over the responsible handling of firearms in domestic settings.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
While the core details of the incident are consistent across reports, there is a lack of information regarding the victim's identity and the specific circumstances leading to the decision to conduct firearm drills in a residential setting. Additionally, the exact timeline of events leading up to the shooting remains unclear.
Verbatim Quotes
- “the shooting was his fault,” — Benjamin Garrett Davis, as reported by police.
- “Both individuals are seen drawing handguns from holsters and pointing the firearms toward one another.” — Court documents detailing the incident.
This case highlights the critical importance of firearm safety and the potential consequences of negligent handling, especially in environments where children are present.
