Tragedy in Riverton: Teen Haven Alexander McBride Fatally Shot by Stepfather Joseph Lee Inside Family Home
RIVERTON, UTAH — June 19, 2025 — A community is in deep mourning after a devastating act of gun violence claimed the life of 18-year-old Haven Alexander McBride inside his family’s Riverton home earlier this week. What began as an ordinary evening turned into an unimaginable nightmare when the recent Mountain Ridge High School honors graduate was fatally shot — allegedly by his stepfather, 46-year-old Joseph Lee.
Authorities confirmed on Thursday that Lee, a former Green Beret with extensive firearms training, turned himself in to police and is now facing charges of manslaughter. Law enforcement officials say surveillance footage captured from inside the home played a pivotal role in his arrest.
A Life of Promise Cut Short
Alexander McBride — known as “Xander” by those closest to him — had just celebrated a milestone that symbolized his hard work, perseverance, and ambition: his high school graduation. With top honors and a bright academic record, he was preparing for the next chapter of his life — serving an LDS mission and pursuing a future in forensic science, a field that had long captivated his analytical mind and compassionate heart.
“He had everything ahead of him,” said his aunt, Megan Dalton, through tears. “College, service, dreams. He was the kid every parent hopes for — focused, kind, thoughtful.”
Friends and teachers at Mountain Ridge High School describe Alexander as a standout student, a natural leader, and someone who could brighten a room with his wit and sincerity. He was deeply involved in his church, volunteered with youth programs, and often mentored younger students who struggled academically.
“He was the kind of young man who made you believe in the future,” said Principal Janet Halvorsen. “Losing him has left a hole in this school and in our hearts.”
A Shocking Incident at Home
The fatal shooting occurred Tuesday afternoon inside the family’s residence near 1300 West in Riverton. Police responded to a 911 call just after 5:00 p.m. and arrived to find Alexander critically wounded by a single gunshot. Despite the immediate efforts of first responders, he was pronounced dead at the scene.
Investigators believe the shooting happened while several members of the family were gathered in the same room — an agonizing twist that has left loved ones not only grieving but traumatized.
Initial reports suggest the shooting may have stemmed from an argument or misunderstanding involving a firearm, though exact details remain under investigation. Surveillance footage from a home security system reportedly captured the moments leading up to and including the incident.
Joseph Lee, Alexander’s stepfather, later surrendered to law enforcement and was taken into custody. He now faces manslaughter charges and remains held in the Salt Lake County Jail. Prosecutors have not ruled out the possibility of additional charges as the investigation continues.
Court records indicate that Lee had no prior criminal record but did have a documented history of PTSD stemming from his years of military service. Loved ones say he had been struggling with emotional challenges, but no one imagined such a tragic outcome.
Community in Mourning
The news of Alexander’s death has sent shockwaves through the Riverton community. Dozens of friends, classmates, neighbors, and church members gathered Wednesday night at a makeshift memorial outside the McBride home — laying flowers, lighting candles, and sharing prayers.
A formal candlelight vigil is scheduled for Friday evening at Riverton City Park, where attendees will honor Alexander’s memory with music, scripture, and testimonials from those whose lives he touched.
“This isn’t just a tragedy for our family,” said his cousin, Lucas Jensen. “This is a tragedy for everyone who knew what an amazing person he was. His smile, his energy, his dreams — all taken in a single, senseless moment.”
A Legacy of Light
While the community continues to process the pain, the McBride family has expressed their desire to remember Alexander not through the lens of his death, but by the light of the life he lived.
They’ve announced the creation of the Haven McBride Memorial Scholarship Fund, which will support local students pursuing careers in forensic science and criminal justice — a tribute to Alexander’s aspirations and his drive to serve others.
“Our family is shattered,” said his mother, Rebecca McBride, in a written statement. “But we want his name to live on in purpose. Haven’s dream was to help solve crimes and bring justice. Now, through others, that dream can still live.”
As investigators continue their work and the justice system takes its course, one truth remains heartbreakingly clear: a promising life has been lost far too soon. And for those who knew and loved Haven Alexander McBride, the pain of that loss will echo for years to come.
For those wishing to contribute, donations to the Haven McBride Memorial Scholarship Fund can be made via Mountain Ridge High School’s website or in person at the school’s front office.