Man Dead After ATV Accident in Sanpete County 

July 14, 2022

SALT LAKE CITY — A Utah man is dead following an ATV accident in Sapete County. 

On June 23, 61-year-old Donald J. Nicewander of Kearns, Utah, was riding an ATV along the Manti Canyon Road Trail with his friends and family. While riding, Nicewander began having difficulty staying on the trail at his rate of speed, causing him to leave the trail and crash. Witnesses to the crash then called for help. 

Just after 3 p.m., a nearby Utah State Parks law enforcement ranger and a Sanpete County Sheriff’s Office deputy received the call to assist and responded. The deputy arrived on the scene first and immediately began administering first aid with the park ranger from Palisade State Park arriving shortly after. 

Both ground ambulance and Life Flight were dispatched to the scene as well. The two medical teams arrived and assisted the park ranger and deputy. Unfortunately, at approximately 4:23 p.m., Nicewander was pronounced dead at the scene due to the injuries sustained during the crash. He was wearing a helmet at the time of the accident. 

The Utah Division of State Parks extends our condolences to Donald Nicewander’s friends and family impacted by this tragedy. 

GENERAL SAFETY MESSAGE:
With the weather warming up and more people headed outside, Utah State Parks would like to remind everyone that safety needs to remain a top priority. When operating an off-highway vehicle it is vital that you always remember to wear your helmet, recreate with a buddy, and ride within your ability. Helmets are required for those under the age of 18 operating on public land; along with the possession of either a valid driver’s license or an approved OHV education course completion certificate. Education courses for adults are also available. To learn more about Utah’s state parks, safety tips, and laws and rules, visit stateparks.utah.gov.