A heartbreaking tragedy unfolded in Ogden Canyon, Utah, when a father and his 16-year-old daughter lost their lives in a devastating accident. The incident occurred when their pickup truck was struck by a bulldozer that had broken loose mid-air.

Richard Hendrickson, the CEO of Lifetime Products, was traveling with his wife and three children along a narrow two-lane road in Ogden Canyon when the tragic event took place. According to authorities, a tow truck carrying a mini bulldozer lost control, leading to the catastrophic collision.

The accident claimed the lives of Hendrickson and his daughter Sally on the spot. Fortunately, the other passengers in the vehicle, including Hendrickson’s wife and two other children, survived, sustaining only minor injuries. The incident occurred on Saturday, July 6, as the family journeyed through eastern Weber County on Highway 39, a stretch notorious for its challenging terrain and limited space.

Reports from the Department of Public Safety revealed that the tow truck transporting the heavy equipment was traveling eastbound and attempting to negotiate a turn at around 12:49 p.m. Tragically, the bulldozer detached from the tow truck, hurtling into the westbound lane where Hendrickson’s GMC pickup, towing a boat, was traveling. The collision proved fatal for the father and daughter, leaving family members and the local community devastated.

As news of the accident spread, heartfelt tributes poured in for Hendrickson, who was described as a man of vision and integrity. Friends, family, and colleagues expressed their sorrow and shared memories of his impact both professionally and personally.

“We are heartbroken to share the news of the unexpected and tragic passing of our CEO and President, Richard David Hendrickson,” stated Lifetime Products in an official statement. “This heartbreaking incident also resulted in the loss of his beloved daughter, Sally. Richard was more than just a leader; he was a visionary and a cherished friend to many in our company and the broader community.”

The company’s founder, Barry Mower, echoed these sentiments, sharing his own grief over the loss of his friend and colleague. “Richard was a dear friend whom I trusted deeply. His absence will leave a void that cannot be filled,” he stated.

The tragic news also prompted condolences from Utah Governor Spencer Cox, who expressed his sympathies publicly. “Richard was not only a friend but also an exceptional leader,” Governor Cox said. “We are deeply saddened by his untimely death alongside his daughter Sally. Our thoughts are with his family during this profoundly difficult time. May they find comfort and strength as they navigate this unimaginable loss.”

Governor Cox’s post struck a chord with many, sparking an outpouring of grief and support from the community. One commenter wrote, “Sending prayers to Richard’s family—this is truly tragic! Governor Cox, you and your team need to take action to enforce stricter regulations and impose harsher penalties on unsafe loads to prevent such accidents.”

In the wake of the accident, efforts to address safety concerns on Highway 39 have gained traction. A petition was launched, urging state authorities to prohibit larger vehicles from using the precarious two-lane road. The highway, flanked by the steep cliffs of Ogden Canyon and the rushing Ogden River, is ill-suited for heavy or oversized vehicles, which pose significant risks to other road users.

By Tuesday, the petition had garnered approximately 3,300 signatures toward its goal of 5,000. Advocates for the initiative emphasized the need for stricter regulations on the types of vehicles permitted to traverse the narrow canyon road. The petition underscored the importance of improving safety measures to protect all who use the highway.

“This tragic event has highlighted the dangers of allowing heavy equipment and oversized loads on such a confined and hazardous roadway,” one supporter wrote. “We must prioritize safety over convenience to prevent further loss of life.”

While the Hendrickson family and the community continue to mourn the loss of Richard and Sally, the outpouring of support has been a source of comfort during their time of grief. Friends and colleagues have remembered Richard as a dependable, forward-thinking individual whose legacy will endure.

“Richard was a man who saw beyond the present, always looking for ways to improve the future,” said a family friend. “His leadership and vision were unmatched, and he made a difference not only in business but in the lives of everyone who knew him.”

As the petition gains momentum, many hope it will lead to meaningful change and prevent similar tragedies in the future. In the meantime, thoughts and prayers continue to pour in for the grieving family, who must now navigate life without two of their most cherished members.

This devastating accident serves as a stark reminder of the need for heightened awareness and stricter safety protocols, particularly on roadways that pose unique challenges. It is a call to action for all of us to prioritize safety and take proactive steps to protect one another on the road.

Our hearts go out to the Hendrickson family during this incredibly difficult time. May they find peace and solace in the love and support of their community.

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