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MAGNA — A 5-year-old is dead after an accident in Magna Monday morning.
Hunter Joseph Weiss was hit by a truck driven by his grandfather near 8700 West and Redbud Court at about 8:06 a.m., according to the Unified Police Department. Investigators said the boy died on scene.
"Our officers who arrived on scene did what they could to revive the child, and they are absolutely heartbroken," said Unified police detective Chuck Malm. "We know this is devastating for the community out here and we join along with them with the heartbreak of this whole situation."
This is truly an awful scene, I can't even type the words to describe what I'm seeing. #Magna#AutoPedpic.twitter.com/G1eJ9VPkTG
— Shara Park (@KSLSharaPark) March 7, 2016
The boy's parents had dropped him off at his grandparent's house earlier, according to police. Investigators said as the grandfather was preparing to leave in his truck, he told his grandson to go inside and grab a coat. The grandfather believed that his grandson was in the house when he proceeded to back up, Malm said.
"As you can imagine, the community out here is absolutely devastated," he said. "Our hearts go out to them."
The incident is still under investigation, but Malm said it appeared the collision was just a tragic accident. There is no indication the driver, who is 59 years old, was impaired.
Such a tragic scene here in #Magna where a child was killed in an accident @KSL5TVpic.twitter.com/Uk4qS4eleD
— Derek Petersen (@Derek_Photog) March 7, 2016
Hunter's uncle, Adam Prows, read a statement on behalf of the family Monday afternoon.
"Hunter was full of life and loved being outdoors. We are extremely grateful for our family and the bond that we share. We find comfort in our faith and knowledge that we will be together again," he said.
A GoFundMe account* was created to help the family with expenses.
"Hunter has a smile that lit up the room," the page reads. "His joy for life, love for Jesus, and gentle loving spirit will be missed. He was the best cuddler. Could hug the bad out of anyone's day!!"
Contributing: Shara Park, Derek Peterson, Pat Reavy
*KSL.com does not assure that the money deposited to the account will be applied for the benefit of the persons named as beneficiaries. If you are considering a deposit to the account, you should consult your own advisers and otherwise proceed at your own risk.
