The community is reeling in shock and grief after hearing the devastating news about the tragic accident that claimed the lives of Richard David Hendrickson, a respected business leader, and his 16-year-old daughter, Sally. The accident occurred in Ogden Canyon on Saturday, leaving families, friends, and colleagues in deep sorrow, trying to come to terms with the heartbreaking loss of a father and daughter in such a sudden, tragic event.
According to the Utah Highway Patrol, the incident happened in an instant, with no time for rescue or warning. A truck’s excavator broke loose during a tricky maneuver—it was pulling a small bulldozer and navigating a tight right-hand curve when the accident occurred. The bulldozer, which was an integral part of the towing operation, suddenly came loose from the tow truck’s grip. In an instant, the heavy machinery crashed into Hendrickson’s GMC pickup truck, causing severe damage. Witnesses say the explosion of metal and the sudden jarring movement of the truck made it clear that this was a catastrophic event.
Nearby, other drivers and residents reported hearing the loud crash and hearing the immediate aftermath—an eerie silence that followed the chaos in the canyon. Emergency responders arrived quickly, but tragically, Hendrickson and his daughter Sally were pronounced dead at the scene. They suffered instantaneous fatalities, injuries so severe that there was no chance for survival. Two other adults in the vehicle sustained injuries that, although serious, were non-life-threatening, allowing them to receive medical treatment and recover.
Richard Hendrickson was more than just the CEO of Lifetime Products—though his leadership and vision were widely admired in business circles. Many speaking out remember him as a man with wide-ranging skills and a remarkable ability to connect with people. Those who knew him personally and professionally emphasize his mechanical prowess—an intuitive understanding of how things worked, a skill that earned him respect across his company and community. His colleagues from Lifetime Products describe him as a leader with a passion for innovation and quality, someone who built not just a successful business but a reputation rooted in integrity and hard work.
But Richard’s contributions extended beyond the workplace. He was also deeply involved in his church and community. As a stake president for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, he dedicated much of his life to guiding others, offering spiritual leadership and support. Many who knew him in that capacity speak of his kindness, humility, and genuine desire to serve others. His faith played a central role in his life, providing strength and comfort amid life’s challenges—something he demonstrated through his actions, not just words.
The impact of his death has rippled through the local community and beyond. Many are mourning not just the tragedy itself, but the loss of a man who touched so many lives—an inspiring example of service, dedication, and strength. His family, friends, coworkers, and members of his church are united in grief, sharing stories of his kindness, his perseverance, and his unwavering love for his family. Sally, just 16, was a vibrant young woman with her whole life ahead of her—a life cut tragically short, leaving her community devastated and her family shattered.
In addition to expressing their condolences, many public figures and leaders have paid tribute. Utah Governor Spencer Cox expressed his sympathies in a message of heartfelt prayer. He called for peace and comfort for the family and community, laments that such a tragedy reminds everyone of how fleeting life can be. Many in the neighborhood remember Hendrickson not only as a local leader but as a person of integrity and kindness—an individual who worked tirelessly to make life better for those around him.
The details surrounding the incident continue to be investigated, but the impact of this loss is already profound. People are sharing memories, lighting candles, and holding prayer vigils, trying to offer some solace in these dark days. Memorials are being organized, and flags fly at half-staff across local government buildings as a mark of respect. It’s a stark reminder that in an instant, life can change forever, and loved ones can be taken from us suddenly and unexpectedly, leaving us to grapple with a pain that no words can truly ease.
As the community mourns, many are left contemplating the importance of family, faith, and safety—precious things that many of us often take for granted. The tragic loss of Richard and Sally is a heartbreaking call to cherish each moment, to prioritize loved ones, and to remember that life—fragile, unpredictable, and beautiful—is something we must hold onto tightly.
For the family, friends, and everyone touched by this tragedy, the hope is that time will bring healing and that Richard’s legacy of love, service, and dedication will continue to inspire others for years to come. Their memory will live on in the hearts of those they leave behind, a poignant reminder of how precious and fleeting life truly is.
