We recently reported the tragic hit and run accident that claimed the life of 20 year-old, Brayden Bleddoes. According to KSL news, the man believed to have fled the scene after hitting Brayden has been apprehended by police. 49-year-old Michael Todd Brinkman, was booked at Salt Lake County Jail just after 7 p.m. on Monday, October 27, 2009. He is held on charges of leaving the scene of a fatal crash.
Brayden’s father Jared Beddoes said, “He was a fun, fun kid. He always had a smile on his face, and he always was willing to give a hug.”
State Troopers say the driver, Brinkman, stopped for a second after hitting Mr. Bleddoes and then took off. Another car was able to follow the truck and get his license plate number. The witness was able to alert authorities who immediately began looking for Brinkman.
He wasn’t at his Salt Lake County home, but police were able to locate him through his cell phone. Over the phone, he did admit to being in the area of the accident and did admit to hitting something in a construction zone.
Brayden’s father is grateful for the quick apprehension but admits that in the end his son is still gone. “It doesn’t change what happened. It’s done. It’s never going to bring my kid back,” said Jared Beddoes.
According to UDOT, drivers have plenty of warning of the construction work. Brinkman knew he had hit something but fled the scene anyway.
Obviously, apprehending the driver will do nothing to bring back this young man but it will help the family hold this driver accountable for his reckless actions. I offer my heartfelt condolences as the Beddoes family mourns this loss.
Ron Kramer is a Utah personal injury attorney who holds at-fault parties responsible for their actions.
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