Spanish Fork teen home after tragic accident, friend still hospitalized in coma
SPANISH FORK, Utah (ABC4) — One of the two teenage girls who were hit by an SUV in Spanish Fork was released from the hospital earlier this week. Her friend, however, remains in the hospital in a medically induced coma.
The tragic accident happened on Saturday, May 18 when witnesses say the two girls “darted out into traffic” and were struck by an oncoming Kia. Both Olivia, 12, and her friend Reagan, 13, were hospitalized at Primary Children’s Hospital in critical condition.
A spokesperson for the family confirmed with ABC4.com that Olivia was released from the hospital late last week. Meanwhile, according to a GoFundMe, Regan still fights for her life.
“Reagan remains in a medically induced coma,” an update on the fundraising page said. “We are hoping for a miracle. Please remember both of these young girls in your prayers.”
ORIGINAL: Two teen girls in critical condition after being hit by SUV in Spanish Fork
Spanish Fork residents have since rallied and raised concerns over the intersection, 2300 East Canyon Road, where the girls were hit. Spanish Fork Mayor Mike Mendenhall said the city has been working with UDOT to install a traffic light since the fall of 2022.
“After a traffic study was completed, the signal was designed last year to be built this year and the project is already out for bid,” said Mendenhall in a statement. “We anticipate that it will be completed in the next few months.”
Spanish Fork officials confirmed the city is fronting the project’s cost and UDOT will reimburse the city once the project is completed in August 2024.
In the meantime, Mendenhall said pedestrians should cross at a traffic light already installed three blocks east of the 2300 East intersection. Drivers should be aware of the road and stay alert for pedestrians crossing the street.
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The city said it has also placed speed monitors at the intersection in an effort to slow down traffic in the area. Detour signs have been put in to point pedestrians to designated cross walks and the “north leg” of the intersection will be closed throughout construction.
Spanish Fork city officials said other safety measures are also being evaluated.
A GoFundMe for Reagan can be found here and the fundraiser for Olivia can be found here.
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