Salt Lake City Police Arrest Teen in Machete Robbery

An 18-year-old suspect faces multiple felony charges after allegedly attacking a group of teenagers with a machete.

Updated on Oct. 20, 2026 in Property Crime

Bold flat-color editorial illustration depicting a single stylized fence post in navy and cream, evoking a sense of institutional and neighborhood concern. — Salt Lake City authorities arrested 18-year-old Anthony Ray Turnbow on felony charges following an alleged machete-wielding robbery of local teenagers. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

Police in Salt Lake City have arrested 18-year-old Anthony Ray Turnbow following an incident where he allegedly threatened a group of seven teenage boys with a machete. Turnbow is accused of cornering and robbing two of the victims in a backyard.

Why it matters

The incident has resulted in multiple serious felony charges, highlighting a violent encounter that local authorities investigated following a 911 call. Officials are processing the case through the county jail system to address the safety of the impacted neighborhood.

Anthony Ray Turnbow faces two counts of aggravated robbery, seven counts of aggravated assault, and two counts of assault. He is currently held in the Salt Lake County Jail following his arrest on Saturday night.

The players

Anthony Ray Turnbow

He is an 18-year-old suspect currently in custody at the Salt Lake County Jail.

The details

Turnbow allegedly brandished a large machete at 1500 West and 600 South, forcing two victims to their knees before stealing their wallets. The victims sustained minor injuries during the confrontation, and police confirmed the suspect was audible on a 911 recording while making threats.

The alleged assault took place on October 17, 2026, at approximately 9 p.m.
The suspect was arrested on the night of October 17, 2026.

Legal Context

This case follows the city's standard judicial and investigative protocols for handling aggravated assault charges. Local authorities utilize these specific enforcement measures to address violent crimes reported within residential areas.

Residents in the area near 1500 West and 600 South should remain aware of their surroundings following this violent incident. Police involvement ensures the suspect is in custody, but neighbors may see increased monitoring as the investigation proceeds.

The takeaway

Maintaining situational awareness when walking in residential areas at night remains a vital safety practice. If you encounter individuals wielding weapons, prioritize your immediate safety and contact emergency services as soon as it is secure to do so.