BOX ELDER COUNTY - February 23, 2023
The death of a Layton man during the recent severe weather in Box Elder County is under investigation by Utah Highway Patrol and the Box Elder County Sheriff's Office.
A UHP report, it stated on Wednesday, February 22, at approximately 1:30 a.m., troopers were dispatched to a single-vehicle crash southbound on SR-13 at milepost 16. Due to the severe weather in this area, driving conditions were slick with low visibility.
When troopers arrived they found an unoccupied 2018 Honda Civic in a ditch with minimal damage. The vehicle had reportedly slid off the road. No one was found at the scene and troopers were unable to locate a driver.
During the investigation, troopers contacted the vehicle’s registered owner and arranged for it to be towed at their request. A family member confirmed that Samuel Slade, 19, of Layton, should have been driving the car, but they were unaware of his whereabouts. Troopers coordinated with family members to look at Slade's potential locations, but were unsuccessful. After conversations with the family, it was determined the driver could be at an acquaintance’s residence. At that time, UHP troopers returned to their patrol duties.
Later that morning, family members again contacted law enforcement, concerned that the driver had not returned home. Once again, troopers assisted in searching for the driver. A short time later, the body of Samuel Slade was discovered by family members in a field within one-half mile of the crash site. An investigation into the crash and death of the driver is currently ongoing.
"We extend our deepest condolences to the Slade family for their loss," a UHP spokesperson said.