7/18/2024

ASHLAND - The murder trial of Ashland business owner Nathan Monkelien has been delayed. He was slated to go on trial later this month on two charges of first-degree murder among other charges. Monkelien stands accused in the shooting deaths of brothers Manuel and Luis Garcia Salas of Veracruz, Mexico. The reason for the delay, which was scheduled for the 29th is that several witnesses are not available at that time and forensics experts need more time to analyze evidence, including the clothing the victims wore and the gun Monkelien used to shoot them. Iron County Circuit Court Judge Anthony Stella said his main concern was having complete evidence available during the trial. As it stands now, the trial has been pushed to early 2025. Monkelien’s attorney asked about releasing him from custody in the meantime, but Judge Stella denied the request.