Authorities have confirmed the identity of the victim in a tragic head-on collision that occurred north of Cove, Utah, on Sunday afternoon. Heather Marshall, a 39-year-old woman from Lewiston, Utah, was killed in the crash on US-91, approximately one mile south of the Utah-Idaho border.
The accident took place at 1:43 p.m. on December 15, when Marshall, driving a Mazda3 northbound, was struck head-on by a southbound GMC Terrain. According to Utah Highway Patrol Sgt. Jason Kendrick, the GMC lost control and veered into Marshall’s lane. Despite efforts to respond to the scene, Marshall was pronounced dead at the location.
Witnesses reported that the GMC Terrain appeared to hydroplane before the crash, although investigators have not confirmed the exact cause. Sgt. Kendrick pointed to winter road conditions and emphasized the importance of vehicle preparation during colder months. “Tires are a big factor this time of year,” Kendrick said, highlighting the role of wet roads and icy conditions.
The three occupants of the GMC Terrain sustained injuries. The driver, a man from Preston, Idaho, was not wearing a seatbelt and suffered significant injuries. He was transported to a hospital for treatment. The front-seat passenger, a woman wearing a seatbelt, was also injured and taken to a hospital in Salt Lake City. A 10-month-old child, secured in a car seat in the backseat, was flown to Primary Children’s Hospital for care.
This crash marks the third fatal accident on US-91 within a month, sparking concern about road safety along this stretch of highway. Sgt. Kendrick noted that drowsy driving appeared to be a factor in all three crashes, urging drivers to be alert and take breaks if feeling fatigued behind the wheel. He also stressed the importance of slowing down, wearing seatbelts, and ensuring proper vehicle maintenance during winter driving conditions.
As the investigation into Marshall’s death continues, her community is mourning the loss of a beloved individual. Funeral arrangements have not yet been finalized. Authorities are urging all drivers to remain vigilant on the road, especially during winter months, to prevent further tragedies.