SALT LAKE CITY — A Utah Transit Authority (UTA) rail maintenance worker has died from injuries sustained after being hit by a vehicle while on the job in Murray late last month.
The UTA confirmed the passing of Juan Madrid, who was performing maintenance work at a rail crossing on April 24 when the incident occurred.
“We are heartbroken over the loss of Juan Madrid, a dedicated member of our rail maintenance team,” UTA said in a statement. “He succumbed to his injuries after being struck by a motorist while working at a crossing.”
The agency has extended support to Madrid’s family, offering counseling and other resources. Counseling services have also been made available to fellow employees coping with the tragedy.
A second worker injured in the crash is recovering at home, UTA said. “The safety of our team is always a top concern, and we are working closely with the Murray Police Department as their investigation continues,” the statement added.
Murray Police confirmed that the suspect in the hit-and-run, 29-year-old Brandon Palma, fled the scene after the crash but later turned himself in. He now faces a felony charge of failing to remain at the scene of an accident that caused serious injury.
UTA spokesperson Gavin Gustafson said the incident took place around 1:30 a.m. near 5900 South and 300 West as a team of four UTA workers was wrapping up overnight maintenance near a FrontRunner railroad crossing. A white SUV heading east struck two of the workers, leaving one in serious condition and Madrid critically injured.
Madrid was taken into surgery but ultimately did not survive.
Gustafson also emphasized the need for drivers to stay alert and cautious in work zones. “We urge everyone to eliminate distractions and reduce speed when traveling near construction or maintenance sites,” he said.
As with all criminal cases, Palma is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.
