Defendant and Charges

Defendant and Charges
Alexander Paul Wardell, 33, has now been charged with murder (with manslaughter as an alternative) in the death of his girlfriend, Morgan Kay Harris, who perished in the storage unit fire along with her dog. Wardell also faces charges of kidnapping and aggravated animal cruelty.
FOX 13 News Utah (KSTU)
Background of the Incident
In February 2023, Harris and her dog were found dead in a storage unit in Murray, locked and engulfed in flames. Initially, the District Attorney had declared the fire an “accidental, tragic loss of life,” citing insufficient evidence to press charges. That stance changed after weeks of investigation, including fire reconstruction tests conducted at an ATF lab.
FOX 13 News Utah (KSTU)Gephardt DailyThe Salt Lake Tribune

This development marks a significant shift in legal proceedings—from no charges to serious criminal accusations—reflecting new direction in how the case is being handled.

Defendant and Charges

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This is devastating news. Dr. Dorothy Williams-Chandler—someone clearly dedicated to serving her community, especially if she was coming from a charity event—did not deserve to be the target of such a brutal and cowardly act. The fact that she was ambushed and shot six times is horrifying.

Another life taken far too soon. Rest in peace to Cory Exum—46 years old, gone in a moment of senseless violence. The heartbreak for his family, friends, and community must be overwhelming. No one should have to receive that call or experience that kind of pain.