Woman & Bystander Fatally Shot in Farmington

Andrew Wittenberg (Courtesy: Farmington Police Dept.)

Andrew Wittenberg has been charged with aggravated burglary, larceny of a firearm, two counts of first-degree murder, and tampering with evidence. The investigation is still ongoing, and more information will be provided as it becomes available.

From Farmington Police

Wednesday, October 23, 2024

The investigation into Tuesday’s shootings in multiple locations remains ongoing, and law enforcement is now able to provide additional details.

On October 21, 2024, at approximately 5:12 a.m., officers were dispatched to 4900 Kayenta Drive in response to a breaking and entering. The residents had barricaded themselves in a room while the suspect, Andrew Wittenberg (35), was in the house. While inside, the suspect stole a rifle and then fled the scene on foot.

While officers were en route, shots were heard in the vicinity. The suspect went to 2915 English Road, where he shot and killed his girlfriend, Kelly Heath (46).

The suspect proceeded to 3720 Herrera Road, where he approached a business while armed with the rifle and requested a ride from an employee. The employee barricaded themself inside the building. Another employee, Brent Francis (25), was in a vehicle on the property. The suspect opened fire at Mr. Francis, fatally shooting him. The suspect then left the area and discarded the rifle, which was later located by law enforcement.

The suspect proceeded toward Main Street, where he was intercepted by law enforcement and taken into custody in the 3800 block of East Main Street.

Andrew Wittenberg has been charged with aggravated burglary, larceny of a firearm, two counts of first-degree murder, and tampering with evidence. The investigation is still ongoing, and more information will be provided as it becomes available

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