Springville, Utah — September 2025 — Authorities have identified the victim of a deadly drunk driving crash as 36-year-old Matthew Daines, a Springville resident whose life was tragically cut short on Wednesday. Police say the driver responsible had a blood-alcohol concentration (BAC) more than six times the legal limit, making this one of the most shocking DUI cases the community has seen in recent years.
The Incident
The crash occurred Wednesday evening in Springville when officers responded to reports of a pedestrian being struck along a roadway. Investigators determined that Daines, who had been walking nearby, was fatally hit by a vehicle driven by a man who was severely intoxicated at the time. Despite the efforts of first responders, Daines died at the scene.
The driver, whose name has not yet been released by police, was taken into custody shortly after the crash. Preliminary testing revealed an extremely high BAC, measuring more than six times Utah’s legal limit of 0.05%. Authorities described the level of impairment as “incredibly dangerous” and “a reckless disregard for human life.”
Remembering Matthew Daines
Friends and family of Matthew Daines are now mourning the sudden loss of a man remembered as kindhearted, loyal, and deeply connected to his community. At just 36 years old, Daines was described as someone who always carried a smile and offered support to those around him.
“Matthew was the type of person you could always count on,” one friend shared. “He cared about people and had such a gentle, positive spirit. It’s heartbreaking to know he’s gone because of something so preventable.”
Tributes for Daines have poured in on social media, with many expressing outrage at the circumstances of his death while also celebrating the life he lived.
The Investigation and Charges
Police say the driver faces multiple charges, including automobile homicide, DUI, reckless driving, and failure to yield to a pedestrian. Investigators are continuing to review evidence, including toxicology reports and surveillance footage from nearby businesses, to piece together the events leading up to the crash.
Authorities noted that driving at such an extreme level of intoxication not only violates the law but puts countless lives at risk. “This tragedy underscores the devastating consequences of impaired driving,” one officer stated.
A Community Outraged and Grieving
The death of Matthew Daines has sparked outrage throughout Springville, with many calling for stricter enforcement of DUI laws and greater awareness about the dangers of excessive drinking and driving. Community leaders have emphasized the need for accountability and renewed efforts to prevent tragedies like this in the future.
Vigils are already being discussed by family and friends to honor Daines’ memory and to shed light on the life-altering impacts of drunk driving.
Final Reflections
The loss of Matthew Daines has left an unfillable void for his loved ones and his community. What makes this tragedy even more difficult to bear is that it was entirely preventable. A single reckless decision has cost a cherished man his life, leaving heartbreak in its wake.
As the community mourns, many hope Matthew’s story will serve as a reminder of the urgent need for responsible choices behind the wheel. His life may have been cut short, but his memory will continue to inspire those who knew and loved him.
Rest in peace, Matthew Daines.
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