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PAYSON — A Payson teenager died while walking to school Monday when he was hit by two cars.
Adam Renik was well-known in his Payson neighborhood and was an active member of his LDS Church ward. An emotional Carrie Peacock said Adam was at her house Sunday collecting fast offerings for the church.
"He was saying how excited he was to turn 14 so he could be his dad's companion to go home teaching. I mean, he was just devoted and kind and an amazing kid," Peacock said while wiping away tears.
On Adam's 14th birthday Monday, he was walking to Mt. Nebo Junior High School and was hit just before 7 a.m. while crossing the street near 600 W. Utah Ave., said Payson Police Chief Brad Bishop. He was first hit by a westbound vehicle, which then pushed him in front of an eastbound vehicle. He was pronounced dead at the scene, Bishop said.
There is no crosswalk or traffic light in the area.
"He's the kindest, sweetest, most amazing kid. He's so positive. I've never seen him upset, I've never seen him angry. I've never seen him act unkind toward anyone ever. He was so talented with his cello. Just had a giant spirit, he was an amazing kid," Peacock said.
She said Adam devoted all of his free time to helping others and being a good friend.
"Everybody that knew him, loved him. He made a difference in our neighborhood a lot, and in our ward," said 14-year-old Macey Pierce.
Several people commented on social media following word of Adam's death.
"He was a pure soul with a huge heart and loving testimony of Jesus Christ. Dear Adam, we will love you forever," wrote Steven Keele.
Many residents also commented that the area where Adam was hit had become notorious for speeding and for crashes.
"There's speeders all the time," said Jordan Tanner, who lives near the area where the teen was hit. "The crossing guard has gotten after people to slow down while he's crossing kids. My husband and I have run out to the road to flag cars down, telling them to slow down."
"I really feel that this accident was something waiting to happen," added resident Joan Greenhow.
After she saw what had happened Monday, Greenhow said, "I was sick, literally felt like I had been punched in the stomach."
The posted limit in the area is 30 mph. It was unclear if speed was a factor in Monday's accident.
Adam was an eighth-grade student. Nebo School District spokeswoman Lana Hiskey said because the accident happened so early, a traumatic response team and counselors were at the junior high school and ready to assist before students arrived.
Faculty and staff members were "greatly affected" by Adam's death, Hiskey said.
"This boy was just a great student, a great kid," she said. "Our prayers and condolences are with the family and those involved."
Hiskey said Adam was a "straight-A student" and also a member of the school orchestra. Students were putting together a poster and cards to present to the family later this week.
Contributing: Jed Boal
