Debris crashes through windshield, injures passenger on Highway 189

Traffic on SR 189 after Monday's crash. Photo: UDOT Traffic Cam

WASATCH COUNTY, Utah — A vehicle traveling northbound on SR-189 on Monday near Deer Creek Reservoir had a piece of rebar fly through its front windshield. The stake struck an 18-year-old passenger, impaling her in the chest. According to an update from the Utah Department of Transportation, the stake came from over the concrete barrier separating the directions of traffic.

“It is unknown whether the stake was lost from a vehicle immediately preceding the impact, or if it was previous road debris that was struck and kicked up,” read a release on the incident.

An Airmed helicopter responded, but the female was transported by ground to a hospital in Utah Valley in serious condition.

North and southbound lanes were shut down for approximately 30 minutes this afternoon, but after the crash was moved to the shoulder, all travel lanes reopened.

The Utah Highway Patrol is looking for any information regarding the origin of the debris. If you were traveling in the area and have information that can assist Troopers in this investigation, please contact the non-emergency Summit County Dispatch line at 435-615-3600.