DRAPER — Police do not believe speed was a factor in an auto-pedestrian accident Saturday that claimed the life of a 3-year-old boy.
Tanner Ault, of Sandy, and his family had just finished attending an LDS Church baptism with other family members about 7:30 p.m. and were walking back to their vehicle when the boy ran into the road and was struck by an SUV near 11688 S. 700 West.
Tanner was flown by medical helicopter to Primary Children's Hospital, where he was pronounced dead.
The Draper Police Department and Draper city issued a joint statement Monday, noting that while the incident was still being investigated, it appeared to be nothing more than a tragic accident.
"Witnesses in the area said the vehicle appeared to be traveling at the speed limit or lower. The speed limit on 700 West is 35 mph based on the classification of the road," city officials stated.
The collector road is a "low-to-moderate capacity road which serves to move traffic from local streets to arterial roads. The standard speed limit for this type of road is 35 mph," the statement read.
As of Monday, no citations had been issued against the 49-year-old driver.
A GoFundMe page to help the family with medical and funeral expenses has been set up. In just 24 hours, they had already surpassed their initial goal of $20,000.
"Our sweet little Tanner Ault aka ‘Tan Man’ passed away Saturday night after being struck by a car in a tragic accident. We are seeking funds to help lift the financial weight of mounting medical and funeral costs from this sweet heartbroken family," a statement on the page reads.
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