Tooele Co., UT (April 1, 2025) – A car crash in Tooele County on March 30 left a 16-year-old dead and an 18-year-old under arrest. The single-vehicle crash occurred early Sunday morning along State Route 36, prompting a response from both the Utah Highway Patrol and the Tooele County Sheriff’s Office.
When troopers arrived at the scene, they found Jaxon Douglas-David Wood standing near a Tooele County deputy who was performing CPR on the 16-year-old passenger. Despite life-saving efforts, the teen was pronounced dead at the scene. Authorities have not released the name of the victim.
According to investigators, Wood had been driving a truck that veered off the road. Both he and the passenger were ejected during the crash. Arrest reports state that Wood admitted to drinking alcohol at a bonfire earlier in the night and told first responders he was driving 85 miles per hour in a 65 mph zone.
Troopers conducted a field sobriety test, during which Wood’s blood alcohol content was measured at 0.18—more than twice the legal limit. A search of the vehicle revealed open alcohol containers and a THC vape. Wood has been taken into custody and is being held without bail. He faces multiple charges, including automobile homicide, DUI, reckless driving, and speeding.
Our deepest condolences go out to the family and loved ones of the teen who lost their life in this collision.
Wrongful Death Accidents in Utah
Wrongful death cases are among the most heartbreaking types of incidents in Utah. Families left behind must cope not only with unimaginable grief, but also with the financial and legal aftermath. According to the Utah Department of Health, motor vehicle crashes are a leading cause of death for teens. When those deaths involve alcohol or reckless driving, the consequences extend far beyond a courtroom.
In the wake of fatal crashes, families often face challenges that go far beyond the emotional toll. Here are some important aspects to understand:
- Justice and Accountability: Pursuing a wrongful death case can help ensure that the responsible party is held accountable—not just criminally, but civilly as well. This can offer families a sense of closure and acknowledgment.
- Funeral and Burial Costs: The sudden loss of a child places unexpected financial strain on families who must cover thousands of dollars in final expenses while trying to process their grief.
- Loss of Future Contributions: Though young, teens have a lifetime of potential ahead. The law allows families to seek compensation for lost support, companionship, and future contributions.
- Legal Complexity: Fatal DUI crashes often involve multiple investigations—both criminal and civil. Navigating these systems can be overwhelming without legal help.
- Public Trauma: High-profile cases, especially those involving teenagers and impaired driving, can attract media attention that makes mourning even more difficult.
- Mental Health Support Needs: Families, classmates, and friends often struggle with prolonged grief and trauma, especially when a crash involves alcohol and reckless behavior.
If your family has suffered the loss of a loved one, don’t wait to speak with a legal advocate. Contact our Tooele wrongful death attorneys at Flickinger • Boulton • Robson • Weeks today. An attorney can help guide you through the legal process, work with investigators, and pursue the compensation your family needs to begin healing. Taking action now ensures your voice is heard and your rights are protected.
At Flickinger • Boulton • Robson • Weeks, we have walked alongside grieving Utah families for over 30 years. Since 1993, we’ve focused exclusively on personal injury and wrongful death law. Our team works directly with clients—never passing them off to staff. There are no upfront fees, and we don’t take anything unless your case is successful. We also never deduct from your PIP benefits, and our rates remain consistent even if your case goes to trial. Our priority is supporting families through compassion and dedicated legal care. Call Flickinger • Boulton • Robson • Weeks at (801) 500-4000 for a free consultation today.
