BOX ELDER COUNTY, Utah — Governor Spencer Cox recently gave an update about Ryan Michael Bate, the man alleged to have murdered two officers in Tremonton and injured both a Deputy and a K9 officer. Bate’s initial court appearance is just around the corner, set for August 22, 2025.
Bate, 32, stands accused of fatally shooting Sergeant Lee Sorensen and Officer Eric Estrada during a domestic incident back on August 17, 2025. Additionally, he reportedly shot Deputy Mike Allred and K9 Officer Azula, assaulted his wife, and even fired at a neighbor.
This court date marks the beginning of legal proceedings where Bate will learn about the formal charges against him. A serious outlook is on the table, as the charges he faces are substantial.
Charges Filed Against Bate
The list of allegations against him includes:
- Two counts of aggravated murder (capital offenses)
- Four charges of attempted aggravated murder (first-degree felony)
- Endangering a police service K-9 with intent to cause injury or death (third-degree felony)
- Three counts of possessing an explosive device (second-degree felony)
- Two counts of possession of a dangerous weapon criminal intent (class A misdemeanor)
- Three counts of domestic violence assault with prior history (class A misdemeanor)
- One count of unlawful detention in a domestic scenario with prior (class A misdemeanor)
- One count of threat of violence, domestic context with prior (class A misdemeanor)
- Three counts of domestic violence in the presence of children (Class B misdemeanor)
In addition, the prosecution has refiled multiple domestic violence charges that had previously been dismissed. These include aggravated assault and various instances of domestic violence in front of children.
Governor Cox acknowledged ongoing reviews of Bate’s history, particularly concerning domestic violence. He emphasized the necessity of balancing the justice system’s approach instead of simply aiming to incarcerate individuals despite the severity of their actions.
Notably, the Box Elder County Attorney’s Office has filed an official intent to pursue the death penalty, and Governor Cox remarked that, “He deserves the death penalty,” underscoring the gravity of the charges against Bate.
