Dec 12, 2024, 4:43 AM
Dec 9, 2024, 7:59 PM

Man crashes car into dealership after denied return in Utah

Provocative
Highlights
  • Michael Lee Murray purchased a Subaru Outback on Monday morning but returned it later that day citing mechanical issues.
  • The dealership informed him that the car was sold 'as is' and could not be returned, which led him to act out.
  • He crashed his car into the dealership causing around $10,000 in damage and subsequently faced legal charges.
Story

In the United States, a man named Michael Lee Murray purchased a Subaru Outback from Tim Dahle Mazda Southtowne in Sandy, Utah, on a Monday morning. Hours after the purchase, he returned to the dealership, believing he had discovered mechanical problems with the vehicle. Upon requesting a return, dealership staff informed him that the car was sold 'as is' and could not be returned. This response led Murray to threaten to drive through the dealership’s front door. Instead of seeking a resolution, he escalated the situation by crashing his vehicle through the front of the building, resulting in significant property damage. The incident was caught on video, showcasing the moments leading up to the crash and the immediate aftermath. There were reportedly seven salesmen near the entrance when he drove into the dealership, but fortunately, no injuries occurred during the chaos. The building and a parked vehicle sustained extensive damage, estimated to total around $10,000. Murray's actions raised concerns about customer relations in car dealership settings and the repercussions of not meeting consumer expectations, reflecting a broader issue in the automotive sales industry. Following the incident, Murray was arrested and charged with felony criminal mischief and misdemeanor reckless endangerment. In interviews, he expressed regret, stating that he had reached a 'breaking point' due to frustration over the situation. This case sheds light on the emotional responses individuals can have when dealing with perceived injustices in consumer transactions, particularly in high-stakes environments like car sales. As the investigation continues, this incident serves as a reminder of the importance of effective communication and conflict resolution strategies in retail settings. The dealership and law enforcement officials are left to navigate the fallout from this extreme action, which has drawn attention both locally and nationally, sparking discussions about customer rights and dealer responsibilities in financing and sales agreements.

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