Utah Teacher Fatally Shot in Parking Lot [Video]

35 Comments

SALT LAKE CITY — A teacher was shot and fatally wounded in the parking lot of her preschool Friday, and a 70-year-old woman accused in the attack called 911 and then calmly waited for police, authorities said.

Tetyana Nikitina, 34, a single mother of two children, was rushed to Intermountain Medical Center but died of her wounds, officials said.

Police Lt. Don Hutson told The Associated Press in an interview that the suspect knew the victim but investigators were trying to determine their exact relationship. Several shots were fired at the teacher as she prepared to leave in her car from the Salt Lake Community Action Program Head Start. No children were at the school, but teachers were there for training.

“One of the teachers was in the rear parking lot … when an elderly woman came up and confronted her and eventually ended up firing multiple rounds from a handgun,” Hutson said. He said Mikitina was hit by at least two bullets.

“That woman remained at the scene and also called 911 shortly after the shooting,” he said. When police arrived she “set the gun down and gave up.”

Police recovered five shell casings in the parking lot and five bullets remained in the .38 caliber handgun, Hutson said.

Authorities only identified the suspect as a 70-year-old Taylorsville resident, but the Salt Lake Tribune gave her name as M. Nance Hanson.

Nikitina taught young kids at the program for two years.

AP writer Jackie Quinn in Washington and the Salt Lake Tribune contributed to this report

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Anonymous

about 3 years ago

My heart and my prayers go out to all involved. Such a senseless act which was carried out callously and death is so final. Would it be that each of us take each day as percious as it and return it to the Sender with deeds befitting those who are called according to the purpose of God's calling with a smile, a hug, and let go of those things which are non essential. Emotions turned outward to others in a rage are never a postive thing those who carry out such viciousness will only fall sooner or later.
wildsoldier

over 3 years ago

1246 Comments

How sad... Another senseless murder.. prayers go out to the family and friends...
7yt43tquma

over 3 years ago

7224 Comments

She was her soon to be ex Mother in law, the teacher was divorcing her son, the teacher's husband. This is sad all the way around, Sad for the woman, and mostly to the babies she leaves behind. Sad for the meddling mother in law who can't control her emotions. RIP Ms Mikitina, now your ex husband will be in line to get full custody because of this horrid act, unless he was involved as well. We will see how it all plays out.
Anonymous

over 3 years ago

I think its just terrible to take a mother away from her kids like this!
Anonymous

over 3 years ago

sounds like one of those tragedies where no one will ever know the truth, but only the loved ones lost to another fallen citizen
DALLASCRANE

over 3 years ago

19386 Comments

Mary Nance Hanson, age 70. Accused of killing a preschool teacher fired five shots at the teacher and then reloaded another five. She did have a concealed handgun license. May the murderer get what she deserves. RIP precious lady and prayers for your two children age 7 and 9.
Anonymous

over 3 years ago

My heart goes out to all involved in this tragic scene. Life is so precious and each day is a gift to start over, enjoy and get it right. May God's presence surround the family and friends. Prayers for all..
Anonymous

over 3 years ago

Thoughts and prayers for teacher and her children ........
Ofc_706

over 3 years ago

8 Comments

Thoughts and prayers go out to the family of this tragic loss. Taking a life is unacceptable and should not be tolerated. If convicted G-ma should be put to death!
usa_24

over 3 years ago

4994 Comments

Very sad. My thoughts and prayers are with her children.
LAWMANTUKES

over 3 years ago

6558 Comments

What is this world coming too..??..!!!
FireDad

over 3 years ago

7348 Comments

Here is some more info from the Salt Lake Tribune.. http://www.sltrib.com/news/ci_14301668
Anonymous

over 3 years ago

Rest in peace Tetyana. Hope and prayers for her children and all of those that were a part of her life. May you all find peace.
CPD247

over 3 years ago

176 Comments

i feel like there is more to this stroy that isnt been reported or that the news hasnt been provided....sorry for the loss
shadow_officer

over 3 years ago

7622 Comments

weird that happen...sorry for the loss