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PROVO -- The Lehi man accused of killing his uncle last month in Pleasant Grove went before a judge Monday. Colton Louder, 25, is charged with murder and could spend the rest of his life in prison if convicted.
Louder was assigned a public defender.
Many family members were present in the court. They say it's been rough burying 45-year-old Jeff Ackerman, who Louder is accused of killing. Still, they stand by Louder.
Jeff Wilson, the victim's brother-in-law, said, "We're just here to support Colton, here to love him, and be here for him. We know we're in a long process, and we'll be here for him the whole time."
Investigators say Louder got into an argument with his uncle Jeff Ackerman on Feb. 27, then fired a shot at him and ran off. Ackerman chased Louder, and police say Louder shot his uncle several times in the chest.
Ackerman died at the hospital.
Family says Ackerman had been trying to help his nephew get off drugs.
Louder is in the Utah County Jail on $1 million bail.
E-mail: abutterfield@ksl.com
