RICH COUNTY — Law enforcement and family members have released the identity of the 27-year-old Brigham City man who died in a motorcycle crash Saturday night. Zachariah David Simons Jr. was pronounced dead after the motorcycle he was riding struck a cow.
Utah Highway Patrol Lt. Cade Brenchley said Simons was riding with a group of motorcyclists eastbound along State Route 39, in the Monte Cristo area, shortly after 10 p.m. on June 7. Near milepost 53, he struck a cow, causing the motorcycle to burst into flames.
Witnesses had to ride several miles east in order to get cell service to call 911.
Brenchley said emergency crews attempted CPR and other life-saving measures. Despite their efforts, Simons could not be revived and was pronounced dead at the scene.
In a GoFundMe account, family members wrote, “Zachariah lost his life doing what he loved, soaring in the wind riding his motorcycle. He was a loving father, son, and brother to many.”
Brenchley said the area where the crash occurred is open to cattle grazing.
Troopers are unsure whether or not Simons was wearing a helmet.
Family members explained that Simons leaves behind a 2-month-old son. They have started the GoFundMe account, to raise money to help with funeral arrangements.