Photo of Trever Klien (Courtesy: GoFundMe).
LOGAN — An 18-year-old Smithfield man has died from injuries in a traffic crash that occurred last month in southeast Logan. Family members report, Trever Klien passed away Wednesday morning at a hospital in Salt Lake, where he was receiving treatment since the accident.
Utah Highway Patrol Sgt. Jason Kendrick confirmed Klien’s death, and explained that troopers are still trying to determine what happened on the night of January 29. He said the crash investigation has been turned over to a special state agency that will be reconstructing the accident.
Troopers initially reported Klien was traveling in a red Nissan pickup with his girlfriend around 10 p.m. The two were heading eastbound on 1700 S., near the intersection with State Route-165.
At the same time, a silver Chevy Tahoe was driving southbound on SR-165. The two vehicles collided with each other in the intersection after one of the trucks ran a red light.
Troopers report Klien and his girlfriend did not have their seat belts on and were ejected from the pickup.
Klien was found by medical personnel in serious condition and flown by medical helicopter to the Salt Lake hospital. He had extensive injuries, including a traumatic brain injury and several broken bones.
Kendrick said troopers have not issued any citations because they are still trying to determine which vehicle ran the red light. Witness’ statements have been inconsistent, some saying the pickup was at fault and others saying the Tahoe ran the red light.
Troopers have collected surveillance video from a nearby bank, which has only provided minimal help. They have also obtained the exact times the traffic lights changed from the Utah Department of Transportation. What they don’t know is the specific time the crash happened.
Kendrick explained that the case is being turned over to the State Bureau of Investigations. They are expected to re-interview the witnesses and make a final determination of which driver caused the crash.
Funeral services for Klien have not been announced. His family posted on social media, “[Trevor’s] life made such a positive impact on our lives and his spirit will continue to be with us. He fought so hard and was so strong.” A GoFundMe account has been started to help with medical and funeral expenses.
will@cvradio.com