Family Confirms Identity of Prescott Man Found in Nevada Death Investigation

The Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department is investigating the discovery of a deceased man found along I-15 in Nevada. Family members have identified the victim, a missing Prescott resident, named Russell T. Vinton, aged 66.

Authorities reported that Vinton’s body was located at approximately 7:26 a.m. on October 6, exhibiting signs of trauma and multiple gunshot wounds.

Elizabeth Lawson, a family member residing in Queen Creek, confirmed the tragic news on Facebook. “My uncle has been found deceased,” she stated. “He was killed while camping in Nevada. This is not the outcome our family expected, but we have some closure now since he was found. We will never know why someone did this to him.”

As of Friday morning, neither the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department nor the Coconino County Sheriff’s Office had officially confirmed Vinton’s identity.

Vinton was reported missing after he failed to appear for jury duty earlier this week. He had been camping north of the Grand Canyon, according to Coconino County officials. His vehicle was located on Wednesday morning in Craggy Wash, which led to an investigation involving detectives from Lake Havasu City.

Inside Vinton’s vehicle was 61-year-old Patrick N. Champion. Upon arrival of the detectives, Champion allegedly opened fire, prompting a return of gunfire. He reportedly rammed the officers’ vehicle before exiting and was fatally shot during the ensuing exchange.

The investigation into this incident has been assigned to the Bullhead City Police Department. Further updates will be provided as more information becomes available.