2 children killed in rollover accident on S.R. 201

SALT LAKE CITY — Two children were killed Saturday in a multiple-vehicle accident on state Route 201 near 3400 West.

The incident occurred around 4 p.m. Two girls from one vehicle, ages 1 and 2, were transported by medical helicopter in near-fatal condition to the hospital, where they later died. Three adults were also transported to the hospital with injuries ranging from minor to serious, Utah Highway Patrol Sgt. Jeff Nigbur said.

Nigbur said the incident occurred after a vehicle experienced a mechanical failure and crashed into a concrete barrier on the side of the road. Traffic began to slow as drivers made their way around the stopped vehicle.

A red Volkswagen Jetta carrying the two children switched lanes to get around the vehicle when a red Toyota Tacoma struck it from behind. The driver of the Tacoma was up and walking at the scene, Nigbur said, with only minor injuries.

"He's got some pretty severe cuts on his arm and back but he seems to be OK, as well as his passenger," Nigber said.

Nigbur said at this point no citations have been issued nor is it suspected that drugs or alcohol played a role. He said blood samples from the drivers will be tested for intoxicants and the investigation will be passed through the office of the district attorney to see if criminal charges are warranted.

— Benjamin Wood