Dad and Young Daughter Killed Instantly After Bulldozer Rolls Off Truck and Crushes Their Vehicle
A family trip in Utah turned into a devastating tragedy when a bulldozer being transported on a truck broke free and crashed onto a passing vehicle, killing a father and his teenage daughter instantly.
The heartbreaking accident occurred on July 6, 2024, in Ogden Canyon, a scenic area in northern Utah. Authorities said the victims were 57-year-old Richard David Hendrickson and his 16-year-old daughter, Sally Hendrickson. Both were pronounced dead at the scene after a mini bulldozer fell from a truck and landed directly on their pickup truck.
What Happened?
According to the Utah Highway Patrol, the crash happened around 12:49 p.m. on State Route 39 in Ogden Canyon.
Investigators said a truck carrying a mini bulldozer was traveling eastbound when it entered a curve in the roadway. As the driver negotiated the turn, the bulldozer somehow broke free from the vehicle transporting it. The heavy machine slid off the truck and crossed into the path of a westbound GMC pickup truck being driven by Richard Hendrickson.
The bulldozer landed on top of the pickup truck, causing catastrophic damage. The impact was so severe that Richard Hendrickson and his daughter Sally suffered fatal injuries and died at the scene.
Other Family Members Survived
At the time of the crash, Richard’s wife and two other children were also inside the vehicle. Despite the horrific nature of the accident, they survived and were taken for medical treatment with injuries that were not considered life-threatening.
The family had reportedly been enjoying a day together before the tragedy occurred. Friends later said they chose the scenic canyon route because of the beautiful weather.
Victim Was a Well-Known Business Leader
Richard Hendrickson was not only a devoted father but also a respected business executive. He served as the CEO and President of Lifetime Products, a Utah-based manufacturer known for outdoor furniture, sports equipment, storage products, and recreational goods.
Following the accident, Lifetime Products released a statement expressing deep sorrow over the sudden loss of its leader. Company officials described Hendrickson as an influential executive whose leadership helped drive the company’s growth and success.
Colleagues said he had worked his way up through the company over many years, earning respect throughout the organization.
Remembering Sally Hendrickson
Friends and family members remembered 16-year-old Sally as a bright young woman with a close relationship with her father.
According to family friends, Richard had recently spent significant time bonding with Sally through a shared interest in raising chickens. Despite his demanding work schedule, he reportedly built a chicken coop and helped care for the birds alongside his daughter. Those who knew the family said the project brought them closer together.
Investigation Into the Crash
Authorities launched an investigation to determine exactly how the bulldozer became detached from the truck carrying it.
Initial reports indicated that the heavy equipment broke free while the transport vehicle was navigating a curve. Investigators examined whether mechanical failure, securement issues, or other factors contributed to the incident. Officials did not immediately release a final determination regarding the cause.
Transportation safety experts note that heavy equipment such as bulldozers must be secured using specialized tie-down systems designed to prevent movement during transport. Any failure in those systems can create extremely dangerous situations for surrounding motorists.
Community Mourns the Loss
The tragedy shocked the Utah community and prompted an outpouring of support for the Hendrickson family.
Business leaders, community members, and public officials offered condolences following the deaths. Utah Governor Spencer Cox also expressed sympathy, recognizing Richard Hendrickson’s contributions to both business and community service.
Friends described Richard as a dedicated family man, respected leader, and compassionate individual who consistently encouraged others to treat people with kindness and make the most of every day.
A Tragic Reminder
The fatal crash serves as a stark reminder of the risks associated with transporting heavy machinery on public roads. While such incidents are rare, equipment that becomes unsecured can cause devastating consequences within seconds.
For the Hendrickson family, what began as a peaceful family outing ended in an unimaginable loss. The deaths of Richard Hendrickson and his daughter Sally left a lasting impact on their loved ones, their community, and everyone who learned of the tragic accident.
As investigators continued to review the circumstances surrounding the crash, many remembered the father and daughter not for the way they died, but for the lives they lived and the memories they created together.
