Last week, a Springville resident was involved in a crash. 28-year old Nathan A Devenish was driving a Banshee ATV and was accompanied by two children – his 10-year old daughter sitting behind him and a 4-year old boy who was sitting in front.
The incident occurred on Sunday, July 21, near the Sandy Beach area of Utah Lake at around 5 o’clock in the evening. Devenish was driving erratically and was at high speed when a bump caused the back of the ATV to lift up and fishtail. As a result, he lost control of the quad bike, crashing into a vehicle parked on the southeast end of Utah Lake.
Considering the severity of the crash and the fact that neither of the kids was wearing a helmet, it is really lucky that the accident did not end as tragically as it could have. The boy escaped with no more than minor abrasions on his body while Devenish’s daughter suffered injuries on her back and head.
Both children were rushed to Utah Valley Regional Medical Center in Provo, from where the Devenish’s daughter was transported to Primary Children’s Medical Center by helicopter since she required treatment for a fracture she had sustained.
Deputies from the Utah County Sheriff’s Office, who responded to the crash, have reason to believe that Devenish may have been driving under the influence of alcohol. A blood sample was taken from him, but the result won’t be in for several weeks. While Devenish did own up to drinking, he says the accident happened because the ATV’s throttle got stuck.
For the time being, the case is being handled by the Utah County Attorney’s Office. In all likelihood, Devenish will be charged with DUI and two helmet violations which could have more serious repercussions since he endangered the life of children.
