A devastating accident in Ogden Canyon, Utah, has claimed the lives of Richard David Hendrickson, CEO and president of Lifetime Products, and his 16-year-old daughter Sally.
The incident occurred on Saturday, July 6, when a tow truck carrying a mini bulldozer encountered their GMC pickup, PEOPLE reports, in a horrific accident similar to those displayed in the Final Destination movies.
According to the Utah Highway Patrol, the accident unfolded around 12:49PM (local time) as both vehicles negotiated a right-hand curve.
The bulldozer became dislodged from the tow truck, crashing onto the Hendrickson family's vehicle - with Richard, 57, and Sally both inside.
The father and daughter were both tragically pronounced dead at the scene, while two other adult passengers suffered non-life-threatening injuries.
Lifetime Products, deeply affected by the loss, issued a heartfelt statement: "It is with profound sadness that we announce the tragic and sudden passing of our CEO and President, Richard David Hendrickson, in a car accident today in Ogden Canyon.
"This heartbreaking incident also claimed the life of one of his daughters, Sally."
Colleagues and friends alike have expressed shock and grief over the loss of Richard, remembering him not just as a leader but as a visionary and a beloved figure within the company and the community.
"Richard started as a welder and progressed through multiple levels of the company to become President and CEO due to his extraordinary talents and abilities," the statement added.
Barry Mower, Founder of Lifetime Products, conveyed his sorrow, saying: "He was one of my most trusted and cherished friends and will be sorely missed. Lifetime will not be the same without him. My love and heartfelt sympathy go out to his dear family."
Utah Governor Spencer Cox also extended condolences, acknowledging Richard as a friend and exceptional leader. "We are heartbroken by his tragic passing with his daughter Sally," Cox shared, expressing solidarity with the grieving family.
The circumstances surrounding the accident have sparked discussions about safety on Ogden Canyon's Highway 39.
A petition has since emerged, advocating for restrictions on the types of vehicles permitted on this narrow, two-lane passageway.
Describing it as a lifeline for many in Weber County but fraught with dangers due to limited shoulder width, the petition has garnered over 1,700 signatures (as of this writing).
"Ogden Canyon serves as a nerve-wracking daily commute for families and young drivers," the petition underscores, highlighting the risks posed by larger vehicles navigating its precarious route.
It calls for measures to enhance safety and prevent future tragedies, urging community support to limit vehicle types and ensure safer commuting conditions.
"Let’s stand together for the safety of our loved ones and residents of Weber County," the petition reads. "Show your support to limiting the types of vehicles on Highway 39 and make daily commuting in our beautiful canyon much safer."
Our thoughts go out to the Hendricksons' family and loved ones at this time.
