A Salt Lake City man has been sentenced to prison for his involvement in a road rage incident that resulted in the death of another driver. Despite being found not guilty of murder earlier this year, Thomas Jim Long, 46, will serve at least five years behind bars for firing 11 shots during the confrontation.
On March 3, 2024, 3rd District Judge Kara Pettit imposed a sentence of two terms ranging from five years to life for felony discharge of a firearm, classified as a first-degree felony. In addition, Long received nine terms of three to five years for felony discharge of a firearm as a third-degree felony. The judge indicated that these sentences could be served concurrently, granting Long credit for the year and five months he had already spent in custody.
The incident occurred on October 7, 2023, on state Route 201 in West Valley City. Long reportedly forced Jose Ramirez, 50, off the road and subsequently fired 15 shots at Ramirez’s vehicle, striking him eight times. According to the autopsy report, all shots were fired from no more than three feet away. At the time of the shooting, Ramirez was still wearing his seatbelt, and no weapons were found in his vehicle.
Long’s trial began on January 8, 2024, with prosecutors resting their case that same day. During the trial, Long testified, alongside several witnesses, asserting that he acted in self-defense. After deliberating for approximately seven hours, the jury acquitted him of the murder charge.
The confrontation began when the two vehicles were involved in a series of aggressive maneuvers. Witness footage showed Ramirez merging across two lanes of traffic in front of Long, who subsequently sped past him and brake-checked him multiple times. Following these actions, both vehicles collided with a concrete barrier at 1000 West.
After the crash, Long called 911 and informed dispatchers that he felt threatened by Ramirez. He claimed that Ramirez had pulled something from his waistband, leading him to fire his weapon. In the recorded exchange, Long stated, “Well this was threatening my life, he was telling me he was gonna kill me.” When asked about where he shot Ramirez, Long replied, “I don’t remember.”
This case highlights the severe consequences of road rage incidents, raising questions about public safety and the need for conflict resolution in high-stress situations. Long’s sentencing serves as a reminder of the legal repercussions that can follow violent confrontations on the road.
