Lake Point, UT — A severe collision in Lake Point, Tooele County left two people injured on Wednesday, after a passenger vehicle became trapped beneath a semitruck trailer on a busy stretch of state Route 36.
The incident unfolded shortly before 12 p.m., near the busy intersection at Canyon Road, creating a major traffic disruption and drawing a swift emergency response.
According to Utah Highway Patrol Sgt. Mike Alexander, the crash involved a small car carrying two occupants, both of whom suffered significant injuries when their vehicle was crushed beneath the semitruck’s trailer. Early investigations suggest that the vehicle somehow became wedged under the rear of the trailer, though the precise cause is still being examined.
Conditions of the Injured Victims
Emergency crews arrived within minutes to extricate the individuals trapped inside the car. Sgt. Alexander confirmed that one of the victims was transported in critical condition, while the second was listed in “poor but stable condition.”
Both victims were rushed to nearby medical facilities for advanced treatment, though their identities and ages have not yet been released. Authorities are still working to notify family members before further details become public, as per KSL.
The severity of the crash — with the entire front portion of the car crushed beneath the heavy trailer — has raised major safety concerns and prompted Utah Highway Patrol to urge drivers to be extra cautious during high-traffic midday hours.
Traffic Impact Across Lake Point
The crash caused immediate gridlock. All three southbound lanes of state Route 36 were shut down as emergency crews worked to free the trapped occupants, clear debris, and conduct preliminary investigations. Drivers were forced into lengthy delays, with officials recommending alternate routes throughout the early afternoon.
Given the size and weight of semitruck trailers, accidents involving underride situations—where a vehicle becomes stuck beneath a truck—tend to be among the most dangerous on U.S. roadways. Local authorities say this incident could prompt further conversations about highway safety upgrades in Tooele County.
Officials Investigating the Cause
While Sgt. Alexander provided initial details, the full circumstances leading to the crash are still under review. Investigators will be analyzing road conditions, vehicle speeds, dash camera footage, and witness statements. It remains unclear whether weather, driver distraction, brake issues, or lane changes played a role.
The Utah Highway Patrol is expected to release a more detailed report once they gather additional evidence. Until then, they urge drivers to remain vigilant, particularly when driving near large commercial vehicles, which require longer stopping distances and have wider blind spots.
For now, authorities encourage anyone who witnessed the crash or has dashcam footage to contact Utah Highway Patrol to assist with the investigation.
Have you seen safety issues along state Route 36 or the Canyon Road area? Share your thoughts, experiences, or concerns in the comments — your voice matters.
