Authorities located presumed remains of missing teen in Utah after accused killer leads them to burial site

Skeletal remains discovered in a remote part of western Utah are believed to belong to Dylan Rounds, a 19-year-old farmer who went missing in 2022. The human remains were found in Lucin, a small railroad community located about 200 miles northwest of Salt Lake City. The FBI processed the area for evidence and recovered the remains, which are now in the possession of the Utah Office of the Medical Examiner for identification confirmation. Rounds was last seen on his farm in Lucin and reported missing on May 30, 2022. James Brenner was charged with aggravated murder and abuse or desecration of a human body for the murder of Rounds and disposing of his body, according to the sheriff’s office.

James Brenner reportedly led authorities to the burial site of Dylan Rounds as part of a plea agreement, confirmed by Rounds’ mother, Candice Cooley. Cooley expressed gratitude for the support received and stated that having Dylan’s body will aid in their fight for justice. A probable cause statement indicated that the last signal from Rounds’ phone was pinged near where Brenner was staying, and Rounds’ boots were found near a dirt mound while his phone was discovered at the bottom of a pond. Rounds had spoken with his grandmother on the phone before disappearing, and his family had not heard from him since. The sheriff’s office announced that no further information would be released to avoid compromising legal proceedings.

The sheriff’s office expressed condolences to the family of Dylan Rounds, acknowledging the immeasurable pain of their loss and offering their deepest sympathies. The office emphasized the hope that the family could find peace moving forward in the wake of this tragic event. The discovery of Rounds’ remains brings closure to his loved ones, allowing them to bring him home and continue their pursuit of justice. The investigation into Rounds’ disappearance and murder is ongoing, with authorities focusing on legal proceedings and ensuring that justice is served in this case. The community of Lucin and the surrounding area mourns the loss of Rounds, and efforts are being made to support his family during this challenging time.

Further details regarding the circumstances of Dylan Rounds’ disappearance and death have not been released by the sheriff’s office, as they continue to work on the legal case. The involvement of James Brenner in the murder of Rounds and the disposal of his body has brought the tragic incident to light, prompting a renewed focus on ensuring that justice is served. The support and love received by Rounds’ family have been instrumental in their journey towards closure and justice for their lost loved one. The discovery of Rounds’ remains in Lucin has marked a significant development in the case, allowing authorities to move forward with their investigation and legal proceedings in pursuit of justice for Dylan Rounds and his family.