SALT LAKE CITY – The Latest on a Utah girl who survived being shot in the head (all times local):
1:45 p.m.
A Utah girl who survived being shot in the head by two teens in a crime that shocked her small town is leaving the hospital after more than two months and says she can't wait to see her favorite horse, "Junior."
Deserae Turner spoke Thursday at a Salt Lake City hospital where she's been treated since she was found in a ditch Feb. 17. Authorities say two 16-year-old boys lured her to an isolated spot, then robbed and shot her.
The 14-year-old arrived in a wheelchair. She had short hair, a brace on her lower left leg and wore a shirt saying, "Happy." She thanked doctors, therapists and those who sent her prayers.
Her father, Matt Turner, said it's a joyous day and called his daughter a determined and courageous young woman who has battled for her life.
Deserae and her parents declined to talk about her injuries or the circumstances of the shooting.
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11:37 a.m.
A Utah teenage girl who survived being shot in the head by two boys is scheduled to speak Thursday for the first time since she was found in a ditch two months ago.
A family spokeswoman says Deserae Turner will be speaking as she's released from the hospital. She'll be joined by her father Matt Turner.
The Feb. 17 crime shocked residents in the small town of Smithfield, a bedroom community near Logan. Authorities say the two teenage boys accused of shooting Turner concocted the plan while playing video games and discussing their desire to "get rid" of the girl who was texting one of them.
They are charged with attempted aggravated murder, aggravated robbery and obstruction of justice.
The Associated Press is not naming the boys because they are juveniles.
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