Rich County, UT (June 7, 2025) — A 27-year-old motorcyclist was killed late Saturday night in a fiery crash after colliding with a cow on State Route 39 in Rich County, according to the Utah Highway Patrol. The cause of the incident remains under investigation.
Incident Details: The fatal collision occurred just after 10:00 p.m. near milepost 53 on SR-39 in the Monte Cristo Range. Authorities say the motorcyclist was riding with a group when he struck a cow in the roadway. The impact caused the motorcycle to ignite, and the rider was pronounced dead at the scene. His identity has not yet been released and is pending family notification.
Emergency personnel from Rich County and the Utah Highway Patrol responded to the scene.
Investigation and Legal Considerations: UHP is investigating how the animal entered the roadway. Key factors may include fencing failure, negligence in containment, or livestock trespass. Livestock owners are generally accountable if their animals are improperly secured and cause a roadway hazard.
If evidence shows that the cow was negligently allowed onto the highway, the motorcyclist’s family may have a basis for a wrongful death claim. Compensation could be pursued for funeral expenses, loss of companionship, and other damages resulting from the tragic loss.
Source: Yahoo News / ABC4