Utah woman arrested on suspicion of murder after allegedly killing friend in incomplete ‘suicide pact’

A Utah woman has been arrested on suspicion of murder after her friend was fatally shot in what police have said was an incomplete “suicide pact”.

Heavenly Faith Garfield, 21, was arrested Tuesday and remains jailed in Utah County on Wednesday without bail.

According to family members, she and the unnamed victim, also 21, had been discussing the pact for several weeks.

A friend of the victim provided officers with text messages he had received from her stating that she wanted to die but was too scared to kill herself, an affidavit of probable cause, obtained by the Associated Press said.

That friend also told police the victim had a suicide pact with Ms Garfield.

Ms Garfield’s father called 911 just before 3.30pm on Tuesday to report the shooting, police said. He said his daughter shot the 21-year-old victim at 10.45am as part of the suicide pact.

Detectives on the scene found a 9mm bullet near the victim’s body, KUTV reported, citing police documents.

Saratoga Springs Police have recommended Ms Garfield be charged with murder and discharge of a firearm. Jail records didn’t list an attorney who could speak on her behalf and no charges have been filed as of yet.

A voicemail seeking comment left Wednesday with a phone number believed to belong to Garfield’s mother was not immediately returned.

If you are experiencing feelings of distress, or are struggling to cope, you can speak to the Samaritans, in confidence, on 116 123 (UK and ROI), email jo@samaritans.org, or visit the Samaritans website to find details of your nearest branch.

If you are based in the USA, and you or someone you know needs mental health assistance right now, call the National Suicide Prevention Helpline on 1-800-273-TALK (8255). This is a free, confidential crisis hotline that is available to everyone 24 hours a day, seven days a week. If you are in another country, you can go to www.befrienders.org to find a helpline near you.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.