Family mourns loss of Salt Lake County deputy killed by cement truck
Nov 14, 2022, 10:28 PM | Updated: Nov 15, 2022, 11:49 am
LEHI, Utah — The family of Salt Lake County Sheriff’s Office Deputy Joel Baker is thanking the community for its support after the 33-year-old was hit and killed on his way to work.
Investigators said at approximately 4:30 a.m. Saturday, a cement truck heading southbound on Redwood Road hit Baker’s car as he was eastbound on Mountain View Corridor.
“The only thing we know is somehow there wasn’t enough time for him to stop at the light,” said Cami Beacham, Baker’s sister-in-law.
Baker leaves behind his wife and their 1-year-old son. Their family has set up a GoFundMe* campaign to help raise money to cover funeral costs.
“He was kind and he loved my sister and their son more than anything,” Beacham said. “This is a big change for them. They now have a funeral to pay for that they didn’t expect to pay for and life she needs to adjust to.”
His family hopes this accident serves as a reminder for drivers to slow down and pay attention.
“This is someone’s family member, their brother, their husband, their father,” Beacham said. “There are other people on the road and their lives are important.”
Lehi police said the cement truck driver is cooperating with the investigative team and impairment does not appear to be a contributing factor at this time.
*KSL TV does not assure that the money deposited to the account will be applied for the benefit of the persons named as beneficiaries. If you are considering a deposit to the account, you should consult your own advisors and otherwise proceed at your own risk.
