Two newlywed women who were excited to take on life's adventure together had the next step in their journey cut short.
Crystal Turner and Kylen Schulte were found dead at a campsite near the La Sal Mountains, just outside of Moab, Utah. A friend, who became concerned when the two didn't return from a camping trip, went out to look for the pair four days after they'd last been contacted. The area was a hotbed of search activity as authorities were also searching for Gabby Petito in the area at the time.
When the women were found dead, many feared it was a serial killer attacking campers in the area. They had been shot and though there were initial rumors of sexual assault, but police later dismissed this detail. Police have since ruled out any connection between the cases and now, they believe they know who is responsible for Crystal and Kylen's deaths.
The Grand County Sheriff's Office has shared the identity of the suspect they believe is responsible for the shooting deaths of Crystal and Kylen. In a press release shared on social media on May 12, GCSO explains the suspect's connection to the two women.
"Grand County Sheriff's Office has identified Adam Pinkusiewicz as a suspect in the double homicide of Kylen Schulte and Crystal Beck Turner," the statement reads.
"Adam Pinkusiewicz was a former employee at the McDonald's that Crystal worked at located in Moab, Utah," the statement noted.
They go on to explain that Pinkusiewicz was one of the persons of interest identified in January 2022. Multiple attempts were made to locate and interview him, but they were unable to establish contact.
"Through continued analysis and collection of evidence, the GSCO had learned that the suspect was in the La Sals and Moab at the time of the murders, had left the State of Utah shortly after the homicides, then later committed suicide," GSCO's statement revealed.
"GSCO conducted numerous interviews and recently received information that prior to committing suicide, Adam Pinkusiewicz told another party that he had killed two women in Utah and provided specific details that were known only to investigators."
This breakthrough isn't the end of this case, however. Investigators are continuing to look into evidence, including Pinkusiewicz's car. The 2007 Toyota Yaris was recently found and seized and is being processed for potential evidence.
Police believe Pinkusiewicz was the "creepy guy" the women had told friends was giving them a hard time in a local bar and around the camp area. They are asking anyone who may have seen anything or has any relevant information to reach out to GSCO at 435-259-8115.
