Utah County commissioners urge residents to seek free mental‑health resources after local tragedy

At a Sept. 17 meeting, the Utah County Commission opened by acknowledging a recent local tragedy and urging residents to seek mental‑health support. Commissioners praised law enforcement and county staff for their work and listed local resources available at no cost.

The commission began the session with a prayer by Paul Jones and the pledge of allegiance led by Bridal Thorley. In opening remarks, an unnamed commissioner said the county had seen “a lot of emotions” and thanked the sheriff’s office and county attorneys for their work.

“Thank you to Jeff Gray and all of his employees,” the commissioner said, adding that county staff had been working long hours. A second commissioner echoed those comments and thanked prosecutors, defense staff and behind‑the‑scenes administrative employees who have supported the response.

Another commissioner urged residents affected by the event to seek help, saying, “Seeking help and healing is not a weakness. It is a strength. Your mental health matters.” Commissioners and staff cited local and national resources available to the public at no cost, including Wasatch Behavioral Health, Utah Valley University mental‑health centers, Rocky Mountain Medical University clinics, the national 988 crisis line, and the SafeUT app. The commissioners said they would post resource links on the county website.

Speakers emphasized that many residents may experience trauma in the aftermath and encouraged anyone affected to use the free services regardless of ability to pay. No formal action or vote was taken during the remarks; the statements were made during the meeting’s opening ceremonial and remarks period.

The commission proceeded to regular business after the remarks and public comment concluded with no public commenters addressing the board that day.