Troubled Youth Responsible for Death of Rehab Staff Member

A troubled youth who was being held at a rehab in Escalante Utah is responsible for the death of a staff member at the youth crisis facility.

Troubled youth attempts an escape

17 year old Clay Brewer, whose name was released following adult murder charges, had only been at the Turn-About Ranch for less than a week when he tried to escape, killing 60 year old Jimmy Woolsey in the process. Brewer told investigators he was addicted to prescription pills and “lost his mind” as he was going through intense withdrawals. Brewer first attempted to take his own life the night before by drinking bleach, then decided the next day to make a run for it.

Beaten to death

Brewer somehow got hold of large metal pole or stick, perhaps something near the fire pit he was near along with other teens, and beat Woolsey to death when the 60 year old man attempted to stop him. He also hit another staff member a couple times until she gave him the keys to a car. Brewer then ceased his aggressive actions and sped off. After leading police on a high speed chase, Brewer was eventually stopped. Even then, the troubled youth tried to commit suicide by cop by acting as though he were pulling a gun on officers. Law enforcement officials did not take the bait and arrested Brewer instead.

Charged as adult

The 17 year old teenager who according to Facebook had a love of all things Major League Baseball was sent to Turn-About Ranch by his family most likely for his addiction to prescription pills. Instead of receiving treatment and returning to his family, Brewer is now facing a series of charges, including aggravated murder and aggravated robbery. In a withdrawal induced panic, Brewer took a life and will now probably lose his own to a lifetime behind bars.

Relaxed facility

While the hearts of all go out to the family of Jimmy Woolsey, it is difficult to not feel sympathy for Brewer and his family as well. There are many questions that Brewer’s family may be thinking such as:

• What was being done to help Brewer cope with his withdrawal symptoms?

• Why did he have access to dangerous items such as bleach and the metal pole?

• Should he have been in a stricter facility?
• What if he hadn’t been sent to the Turn-About Ranch in the first place?

While Brewer’s family is probably feeling guilt for their decision to send their troubled youth to a facility which is far more relaxed than others throughout the state, what’s done is done and now their son will face the consequences. Hopefully their troubled youth will now be able to get the treatment he needs to battle his drug addiction.