Automobile related tragedies continue to rock the Castle Valley as yet another local resident has been killed by a moving vehicle. Just before 9 p.m. on Monday night a passenger car struck two pedestrians as they attempted to cross a Green River roadway. The man was killed while his wife sustained serious injuries. This incident marks the Castle County’s third automobile related death in as many days and sixth roadway related fatality in 10 days.
According to Utah Highway Patrol information, at 8:53 p.m. Monday night a white 2002 Ford Taurus was traveling eastbound on S.R. 19 at the intersection of Clark Street in Green River when an automobile/pedestrian crash occurred. The Taurus, driven by Liesa C. Metcalf, 32, of Saratoga Springs, struck the two walkers as they were crossing the street in a southbound direction, killing 53-year-old Ramchandra N. Panchal of Green River and seriously injuring his wife, 50-year-old Rashmiben Panchal.
The UHP reported that following the incident, Rashmiben was flown via helicopter to St. Mary’s Hospital and Regional Medical Center in Grand Junction, Colo. for treatment. Neither Metcalf, nor her 11-year-old passenger were injured during the incident.
According to officials, it is unknown at this time whether the couple was in the crosswalk when the crash occurred. The crash is still under investigation. However, UHP officials have stated that neither speed nor impairment were contributing factors to the incident.
Green River fatality continues automobile deaths in local area
"Utah Highway Patrol markings concerning the point of impact for Monday's accident."