Man riding ATVs with his dad dies in crash on ‘challenging’ trail, Utah officials say

A 56-year-old man riding ATVs with his father died following a crash on a “challenging” trail, Utah sheriff’s officials reported.

The crash took place on a Hog Canyon trail north of Kanab at about 2 p.m. Friday, Aug. 25, the Kane County Sheriff’s Office said in a news release.

Deputies, rangers and emergency medical crews responded to the accident, where other riders were performing CPR on the man, but he died of his injuries at the scene.

The sheriff’s office identified him as David Matthews of Washington, Utah. A helicopter airlifted his body from the trail.

The trail “has long been recognized as one of the more challenging routes in our county, demanding skill and caution from riders,” the sheriff’s office said.

Other ATV riders have been injured and killed on the trail in the past, officials said.

They encouraged ATV riders to familiarize themselves with trails and safety levels before setting out, wear proper safety gear, exercise caution, never ride alone and keep their ATVs in good working condition.

“We hope that all who come to enjoy our area will return home safely,” the release said.

An investigation into the crash continues.

Kanab is in southern Utah, just north of the Arizona state line.

This story was originally published August 28, 2023 at 12:38 PM with the headline "Man riding ATVs with his dad dies in crash on ‘challenging’ trail, Utah officials say."