Sister Speaks Out After Woman Found Dead in Ex-Boyfriend’s Car

The family of Summer Tatiana Roney, a 30-year-old woman found dead in her ex-boyfriend’s car on New Year’s Eve, is speaking out for the first time. Her sister, Michelle Tischner, is sharing memories of Roney’s life and urging others to take precautions in abusive relationships.

Roney failed to appear for her scheduled work shift at 2 p.m. on December 30. Tischner believes Roney met with her ex-boyfriend, Jacob Johnson, 40, that day to end their tumultuous 3 ½-year relationship. Their relationship had a history of violence, including a 2021 incident when Tischner contacted police on Roney’s behalf.

Herriman police suspect Johnson killed Roney at his home on Stone Hayes Court. Later that evening, Johnson allegedly drove with her body to a Bluffdale gas station, where police discovered Roney’s body in the backseat during a DUI investigation just after midnight on New Year’s Eve. Surveillance footage confirmed Johnson’s vehicle arriving at the gas station.

Tischner expressed relief that her sister’s body was found, fearing Johnson had planned to dispose of it. “My biggest fear was he was taking her to dispose of her,” she said.

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Authorities confirmed Roney’s death as a homicide caused by blunt force trauma. “Nobody should be taken this violently,” Tischner said, visibly emotional.

As she grieves, Tischner urges others in abusive relationships to prioritize safety. “If you’re going to break up with someone, don’t go alone,” she advised.

Born in Russia and adopted by her family in the United States, Roney is remembered as a resilient, kind-hearted woman. “Summer was a beautiful, kind-hearted soul,” Tischner said. “She was more than the person found in the back of the car. She was my sister, and an amazing human being.”

Roney’s funeral is scheduled for Thursday, where loved ones will gather to honor her memory. Tischner vowed to attend every court hearing to ensure justice is served.

The Salt Lake County District Attorney’s Office is reviewing the case for formal charges against Johnson.

While the family seeks justice, they remain focused on preserving Roney’s legacy — a life defined by kindness, love, and an unwavering spirit. “I want everybody to know who she is,” Tischner said.

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keelee-mccain

Keelee McCain is a junior at Weber High School. This is her second year on staff, this year as Assistant to the Chief. She does have a life (probably) but she can't think of anything to write in here, so she's probably just going to ramble now. She has an orange cat who she likes better than any human. If you see her being quiet or not sitting on top of a desk, there is something very wrong. In her free time she enjoys harassing her favorite teachers and sleeping. Her life plans include making it through high school and leaving. Happy lifeing.

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