Utah ninth grader dies by self-inflicted gunshot on school field trip

An unnamed ninth-grade student died after shooting themselves during a Canyon View Junior High field trip to South Fork Park in Provo Canyon on Sept. 24, authorities said. The student pulled a gun from home and fatally wounded themselves in front of teachers and classmates. They were airlifted to a hospital but died from their injuries shortly after, according to the Utah County Sheriff's Office.

Staff members called emergency services and moved other students away from the scene. More than 300 students had been on buses bound for the canyon when the incident occurred. The sheriff's office said the case remains under active investigation and will not release the student's name at this time. The death has been ruled a suicide, and investigators are examining how the student gained access to a firearm and what led to the public nature of the shooting.

Witness Ian Campbell described the moments leading up to the shooting. He said he was playing spike ball with a friend when he heard a loud pop, then saw many students running and teachers rushing to respond as the group was wrapping up its outing.

In the days that followed, the school district said it was heartbroken and would provide counseling to students and staff for as long as needed. Alpine School District said it was cooperating with law enforcement, medical personnel, and counseling experts to navigate the tragedy. Police have asked witnesses preliminary questions, though students and teachers are being given time to grieve before formal questions are pursued. Investigators hope to determine where the firearm came from and what factors led to the decision to bring it on the trip.

The district canceled evening parent conferences that had been scheduled, and some students established memorials with flowers, signs, and candles near the school to honor their classmate. Officials emphasized ongoing support for students and families as the investigation continues.