Teen found shot in Cache County canal no longer in coma, family says


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LOGAN — A teenage girl found severely injured in a dry canal bed one week ago is no longer in a medically induced coma, her family said Friday.

A statement from the family of 14-year-old Deserae Turner of Amalga said in part, "While Deserae remains in critical condition (at Primary Children's Hospital), she is no longer in a medically induced coma. Our daughter is a fighter with a strong will to live. We are grateful for every day and know that there is a very long road ahead for her and our family."

The family also thanked family, friends, medical personnel and community members for their support.

"The kindness our family has been shown is beyond measure. We are in awe of the number of people who have reached out to us, thought of us, and included our family in their prayers."

"We are especially grateful for the medical staff who have gone above and beyond to care tirelessly for Deserae."

Turner was found in a dry canal east of Sky View High School Feb. 17 after failing to come home from school at North Cache 8-9 Center in Richmond. Investigators later said she had been shot in the head.

Two 16-year-old boys were charged with attempted aggravated murder in the case. Police believe the boys plotted to kill Turner, lured her to the canal under the guise of buying a knife, and then shot her once in the back of the head at close range.

"Police were advised that the original plan was to murder (Deserae) using knives," charging documents state. The two were ordered Wednesday to remain in detention awaiting their next hearing Feb. 28.

A GoFundMe account* has been set up to help with Deserae's medical expenses. Additionally, a Deserae Turner Charity Fund has been set up at America First Credit Union.


*KSL.com does not assure that the monies deposited to the account will be applied for the benefit of the persons named as beneficiaries. If you are considering a deposit to the account, you should consult your own advisers and otherwise proceed at your own risk.Contributing: Pat Reavy

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