A man charged in the Murray shooting murder has a history of violence and gang involvement, police say

MURRAY, Utah, November 26, 2024 (Gephardt Daily) – The man arrested by Murray City police last week for the alleged shooting death of a male victim was on probation, is a known gang member and has in committed acts of violence in the past. Court documents say.

22-year-old Pirawn Yohan Mula, also known as Popeye, was arrested shortly after noon Friday following the shooting, it was reported Thursday around 8 p.m.

Murray City police responded to the scene but were unable to save the victim, Mula’s probable cause statement said.

“Witnesses and other people involved told investigators that Pirawn arrived at the scene and got into a physical altercation with the victim in the parking lot before Pirawn pulled out a handgun and shot the victim in the head.

“The victim fell to the ground and was shot again at close range by Pirawn. Pirawn ran to the white SUV and fled the scene.”

“There is no evidence that any degree of self-defense, negligence or recklessness was involved in this incident.”

Mula was booked into the Salt Lake County Jail and held without bail. He was charged with murder, possession of a dangerous weapon by a restricted person, discharging a firearm (two counts) and drunkenness.

“Pirawn knows several or most of the witnesses at this location who provided officers with information that led to his arrest,” his affidavit states, recommending he be held without bail.

“Pirawn has a long history of gangs and violence and poses a threat to the public and those involved in this incident.”

A review of court records shows Mula pleaded guilty in January of this year to possession of a controlled substance with intent to distribute, which was reduced to a third-degree felony as part of a plea deal.

Another court document discussed restitution owed in connection with a juvenile offense, the nature of which was not disclosed.

Gephardt Daily will have more coverage of this case as it continues.