PROVO, Utah – In a tragic incident that shook the community of Eagle Mountain, a judge has ruled that Kent Cody Barlow will stand trial for the deaths of two toddlers who were playing in a horse corral when a car crashed into their location. The young boys, Odin Jeffrey Ratliff and Hunter Charlie Jackson, lost their lives on May 2, 2022, when the vehicle veered off the road and collided with Cedar Valley Stables.
The court ordered Barlow to face two counts of murder, upgrading the charges from initial manslaughter charges due to the severity of the case. This decision came after extensive hearings and arguments presented by both the prosecution and the defense. Deputy Utah County attorney Ryan McBride argued that Barlow’s actions met the criteria for “depraved indifference murder,” highlighting the reckless nature of the incident.
During the hearings, it was revealed that Barlow had been driving at a dangerously high speed, reaching up to 123 mph before the crash occurred. Additionally, it was mentioned that Barlow had consumed a significant amount of methamphetamine, further exacerbating the risks associated with his reckless driving. The evidence presented painted a grim picture of the events that led to the untimely deaths of the two toddlers.
As the case progressed, Barlow’s defense attorney, Benjamin Aldana, raised concerns about the trial timeline set by the judge, arguing that it may not allow for adequate preparation of the defense. This led to a motion to disqualify the judge from the case, citing potential bias based on previous interactions and decisions made in the proceedings.
The tragic incident not only resulted in the loss of two innocent lives but also raised questions about the legal implications of such reckless behavior. The community continues to mourn the loss of Odin Jeffrey Ratliff and Hunter Charlie Jackson, while the legal process moves forward to seek justice for their families. The outcome of the trial will undoubtedly have far-reaching consequences for all parties involved, shaping the course of the case and the accountability of those responsible.