Background on the Tragedy
In December 2024, a devastating murder-suicide occurred in West Valley City, Utah, claiming the lives of five family members. Police believe Dae Reh, 42, fatally shot his wife Bu Meh, 38, and their children—Boe Reh, 11, Kristina Ree, 8, and Nyay Meh, 2—before taking his own life. Their son Sha Reh, then 17, was the sole survivor, suffering a head gunshot wound that left him blind.
Sha spent the following year rebuilding his life with remarkable resilience. He learned Braille, mastered new life skills, and achieved his dream of enrolling at the University of Utah just a week before his death.
Sha’s Life and Legacy
On January 11, 2026, Sha, now 19, died suddenly of natural causes at his aunt and uncle’s home. His family shared the news via a GoFundMe page set up for funeral expenses, expressing profound grief tempered by faith.
“While we are devastated at the news of his death, the knowledge of the joy of his reunion with his family exceeds our pain,” the family wrote. “He was among those who once blind, but now can see.”
They highlighted the “labor of love” in caring for him as he regained independence, thanking Salt Lake County officials, first responders, and community supporters for their kindness.
Tributes poured in from those who knew Sha. Granger High School assistant principal Josh Adams called him “the kindest person I’ve ever known,” praising his endurance, empathy, and forgiveness. In a May 2025 KSL interview, Sha, a refugee from Myanmar baptized into The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, shared how faith fueled his positivity: “I strive to do good things in this world… I am very grateful and blessed to have this opportunity to be happy.” He likened learning Braille to mastering English upon arriving in the U.S.
Broader Context
This story underscores themes of survival, faith, and community support amid unimaginable loss. Sha’s journey from tragedy to university enrollment inspired many, as noted by local outlets like Fox 13 and KSL. The GoFundMe reflects ongoing family needs; similar campaigns often aid funeral costs and long-term recovery for survivors.
If you’re looking for ways to support the family, updates on the fundraiser, or related resources on trauma recovery in Utah, let me know how I can assist further.
