Joel Sotelo Cabrera Obituary, Death – A 28-year-old man who was fatally struck by a vehicle while crossing Interstate 80 near Kimball Junction has been identified as Joel Sotelo Cabrera. Authorities with the Utah Highway Patrol (UHP) confirmed his identity on Sunday, two days after the incident occurred.
The tragic event happened late Friday night in Summit County. Emergency crews were called to the scene at around 11:30 p.m. after receiving reports of an auto-pedestrian crash. According to officials, Cabrera, a resident of West Jordan, had parked his car on the side of I-80 before getting out and attempting to cross the eastbound lanes of the highway on foot.
Cabrera was reportedly trying to make his way toward a nearby construction area when he was struck by an oncoming pickup truck. The driver of the truck remained at the scene and fully cooperated with law enforcement officers during the investigation.
Due to the severity of his injuries, Cabrera was airlifted by helicopter to the University of Utah Hospital. Unfortunately, he succumbed to his injuries while in transit and was pronounced dead before reaching the hospital.
At this time, the circumstances surrounding why Cabrera was crossing the interstate remain unclear. However, investigators have stated that impairment may have played a role in the incident. The full details are still being reviewed as the investigation continues.
Authorities have not indicated whether toxicology reports are pending or if further information will be released once the case concludes. It’s also unclear whether Cabrera had any connection to the nearby construction zone or why he stopped and exited his vehicle in such a dangerous location.
The driver of the pickup truck was not injured in the crash and has not been charged, as there is no indication of wrongdoing on their part. Law enforcement officials continue to piece together the events leading up to the crash and are working to determine whether any additional factors may have contributed.
This accident marks another tragic reminder of the dangers posed to pedestrians on major roadways, especially at night. The Utah Highway Patrol continues to urge motorists and pedestrians alike to exercise extreme caution near highways and interstates, especially in areas with low visibility or ongoing construction.
Joel Sotelo Cabrera’s family has not yet issued a public statement. Authorities are asking anyone who may have witnessed the crash or has additional information to contact the Utah Highway Patrol as the investigation remains active.
The crash caused temporary traffic disruptions on I-80 late Friday night as emergency personnel responded and the scene was cleared. Traffic has since returned to normal.
The UHP will release additional updates as more details become available.
