Mohave County officials confirmed that a utility‑terrain vehicle (UTV) rolled over east of Kingman on Wednesday morning, killing a 14‑year‑old boy and injuring his 15‑year‑old passenger.
Accident details
At approximately 11:35 a.m., emergency crews from the Pinion Pine Fire District, River Medical Ambulance and CareFlight 66 Air Ambulance responded to a medical request near East Willow Creek Road and Interstate 40. Upon arrival, responders found the UTV overturned with two male juveniles, both residents of Kingman, ejected from the vehicle.
According to investigators with the Mohave County Sheriff’s Office, the youths were traveling northbound on East Willow Creek Road when the 14‑year‑old driver failed to negotiate a curve, lost control and the vehicle rolled. Neither occupant was wearing a seat belt or a helmet, a factor cited by investigators as contributing to the severity of the crash.
Medical response
The driver sustained serious injuries and, despite lifesaving measures administered on site, was pronounced dead at the scene. The passenger suffered minor injuries and was transported to a local hospital in a personal vehicle for further evaluation.
Medical personnel treated the driver at the scene before his death, while the passenger received basic first‑aid before being taken for additional care.
Investigation ongoing
Mohave County Sheriff’s deputies and crash investigators have taken over the investigation. No further details have been released at this time, and authorities have not indicated whether additional factors, such as road conditions or vehicle speed, will be part of the final report.
The incident underscores the importance of safety equipment for young riders. UTVs, while popular for recreation, can become hazardous when operated without proper restraints or protective gear. Local officials encourage parents and guardians to ensure that juveniles using such vehicles are equipped with seat belts and helmets, and to supervise their use on public roadways.
Community response
The Kingman community has expressed sorrow over the loss of the teenager. Local leaders, including the Mohave County Sheriff’s Office, have offered condolences to the family and emphasized the need for continued safety education for youth engaging in off‑road and on‑road recreational activities.
Residents are urged to report any unsafe driving behavior and to support efforts aimed at improving road safety for all travelers.
Original reporting: News 3 KSNV Las Vegas (local) — read the source article.
