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PROVO — Two adults and an unborn baby were killed in a crash in Provo Canyon, near Wallsburg on Sunday. It was a devastating loss for two families. The surrounding community is definitely feeling the impact of this tragedy.
Many people know both of the families involved. On one hand, you have a couple known for their contributions to the area. On the other, a young family that just lost an unborn child. A former city councilman and county commissioner.
"This whole valley is gonna miss him. Not just a few of us," said Tom Bonner director of Wasatch County Parks and Recreation.
Kathleen Draper was a high school librarian.
"When Kathy Draper was around, people were always happy," said Shawn Kelly, Principal of Wasatch High. "She treated people like gold."
And then, a young family - the Finlaysons.
"It's just a tragic thing," said Mike Davis, Wasatch County Manager. "As we heard about it yesterday, we were just shocked that something like this could happen."
All were victims in a deadly car accident on US 189, in Provo Canyon. In a Nissan Altima, Both 63 years old Val and Kathleen Draper were killed in the crash. Their grandchildren, Cassie and Quincy who are 12 and just under two years old, in critical condition.
Related:
2 killed, child in extremely critical condition after accident
One person is dead and a child is in extremely critical condition after a head-on collision in Provo Canyon Sunday, officials said.ÂForrest and Shantell Finlayson were in the Subaru. They lost an unborn child, and Shantell suffered critical injuries.
"It's just so difficult. Particularly in a small community where we all know each other," Davis said.
At Wasatch High School, students and faculty left notes and flowers for Kathleen Draper in front of the library, where she worked.
"She was somebody that kids could always go to. She would always help them - would always be there with a smile," Kelly said.
While Val Draper spent much of his life in local politics, he most recently worked at the front desk in the local Recreation Center, a project he helped head up as a county commissioner.
"I guess the only way to explain it is it's brutal - brutal on this community," said Bonner, who was his boss and a close friend.
"They were people that bound this community together and I think it's an understatement to say that they'll be missed," Bonner said.
The Finlayson family is still being treated at a Utah County Hospital.
