SUMMIT COUNTY, UT – Authorities have identified the man fatally struck by a vehicle while attempting to cross Interstate 80 near Kimball Junction on Friday night as 28-year-old Joel Sotelo Cabrera of West Jordan. The Utah Highway Patrol (UHP) confirmed his identity on Sunday, two days after the tragic incident.
The fatal collision occurred at approximately 11:30 p.m. on August 1, prompting a response from emergency crews to the eastbound lanes of I-80. According to investigators, Cabrera had parked his vehicle on the shoulder of the highway before exiting and trying to cross the interstate on foot, reportedly heading toward a nearby construction site.
While attempting to cross, Cabrera was struck by an oncoming pickup truck. The driver of the vehicle remained at the scene and has been fully cooperative with law enforcement. Authorities have stated there is no indication of wrongdoing on the driver’s part, and no charges have been filed.
Due to the severity of his injuries, Cabrera was airlifted to the University of Utah Hospital, but he tragically succumbed to his injuries in transit and was pronounced dead before arrival.
Officials are still working to determine why Cabrera exited his vehicle and chose to cross such a dangerous stretch of highway. Investigators say impairment may have been a factor, although the case remains open, and no final conclusions have been released. Toxicology results, if pending, have not yet been disclosed.
There has been no indication thus far whether Cabrera had any professional or personal ties to the nearby construction zone. The reason for his presence in the area and his decision to stop and cross the highway remain key questions in the ongoing investigation.
The crash resulted in temporary closures and traffic delays on I-80 Friday night as authorities secured and investigated the scene. Traffic flow returned to normal early Saturday morning.
The Utah Highway Patrol continues to urge caution for both drivers and pedestrians near highways, especially in low-visibility conditions or construction zones, where the risk of accidents significantly increases.
As of now, Cabrera’s family has not released a public statement. UHP asks that anyone with information about the incident or who may have witnessed the crash contact their office as the investigation continues.
Further updates are expected as additional information becomes available.
Leave a Reply